March 9, 2026

expert reaction to the impacts of air strikes on oil refineries in the middle east

Scientists comment on the impacts of air strikes on oil refineries in the Middle East. 

Dr Akshay Deoras, Research Scientist, University of Reading, said:

“There are reported fears of acid rain over Tehran, but what we’re seeing is really the result of a combination of human and natural factors. The air strikes on oil depots released soot, smoke, oil particles, sulphur compounds, and likely heavy metals and inorganic materials from the buildings, whilst a low‑pressure weather system, which typically sweeps across Iran and West Asia around this time of year, created conditions favourable for rainfall. The raindrops acted like little sponges or magnets, collecting whatever was in the air as they fell, which is why residents observed what’s being described as ‘black rain.’ It’s not that the strikes or resulting smoke created the rain; rather, rain drops picked up pollutants already present in the atmosphere.

“In terms of atmospheric chemistry, the oil fires produce sulphur and nitrogen compounds that could form acids if they dissolve in rainwater. The risks to human health come from inhaling or touching the smoke and particles. Immediate impacts can include headaches, irritation of the eyes and skin, and difficulty breathing—particularly for people with asthma, lung disease, older adults, young children, and those with disabilities. 

“Whilst the weather system that brought rain over Tehran is now moving eastward into other parts of Asia, further ‘black rain’ is unlikely there. Even in places where the system is moving, such as northern India, similar black rain is also unlikely, since such air‑quality‑driven impacts on rainfall are generally localised.“

Declared interests:

Dr Akshay Deoras: “No conflict of interest to declare. “