Toxic cloud from Iran moving toward Central Asia After blasts in oil depots

Explosions at oil storage facilities in Tehran have reportedly released large amounts of hazardous chemicals into the atmosphere, raising concerns that a toxic cloud could be drifting toward Central Asia, meteorologists say.

According to the state weather service Kazhydromet, they expect unfavourable meteorological conditions in Almaty, Kazakhstan, on March 9 that may lead to the accumulation of harmful substances in the air, Caliber.Az reports via Kazakh media.

Experts advised residents to limit physical activity outdoors and reduce the amount of time spent outside. People suffering from chronic lung, cardiovascular, or allergic conditions were also urged to carry their necessary medications. 

Unfavourable meteorological conditions occur when short-term weather factors—such as calm winds, weak air circulation, fog, or atmospheric inversion—cause pollutants to accumulate near the ground.

The warning comes amid reports that explosions at oil storage facilities in Tehran released large quantities of hazardous chemicals into the atmosphere, potentially causing toxic acid rain.

At the same time, social media posts circulating on March 8–9 claim that a “toxic cloud” may be moving toward Central Asia, although there has been no official confirmation or denial of these reports.

Experts note that explosions and fires at oil depots can release large volumes of hydrocarbon compounds, as well as sulfur and nitrogen oxides, into the atmosphere. Acid rain formed from such emissions may cause chemical burns to the skin, while the vapours can pose serious risks to the lungs.