Reports had suggested that “acid rain” might occur in parts of Karachi following US–Israeli airstrikes on oil depots in Iran. However, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has responded to these claims.
The PMD spokesperson, Anjum Nazir, in an exclusive statement, firmly rejected reports of possible “acid rain” in Karachi, calling them baseless and unsupported by scientific evidence.
He clarified that there is no chance of acid rain occurring in the city. He added that rainfall has been recorded in several parts of Pakistan recently without any unusual or hazardous conditions.
Nazir reassured the public that current weather conditions are normal and safe, and urged citizens to rely on verified information while avoiding the spread of unconfirmed reports on social media.
What Is Acid Rain?
Acid rain refers to any form of precipitation, rain, snow, fog, or even dust, that contains higher levels of nitric and sulfuric acids. It forms when pollutants such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides react with water and oxygen in the atmosphere.
These pollutants are mainly released through the burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas by industries, vehicles, and power plants. Natural sources, including volcanic eruptions, contribute only minimally.
Potential Health and Environmental Risks
Experts note that acid rain and polluted air can have both short-term and long-term impacts.
Short-term effects:
Exposure to polluted air, including black smoke, can cause headaches, irritation, and breathing difficulties, particularly in people with asthma or lung conditions.
Vulnerable groups:
Children, elderly individuals, and people with existing health problems are more at risk. Pregnant women exposed to polluted air may face risks such as lower birth weight in infants.
Long-term risks:
Fine particles (PM2.5) can enter the bloodstream, raising the risk of serious conditions including cardiovascular diseases, neurological disorders, and certain cancers.
Environmental damage:
Pollutants deposited through rain can contaminate water sources, harm aquatic life, and affect drinking water quality.
Surface contamination:
Residues on buildings and roads can be reintroduced into the air during strong winds, prolonging exposure and health risks.