UzHydromet Denies Rumors of “Acid Clouds” over Region

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The information circulating on social media that “acid clouds” have formed over Iran and could reach Central Asian countries with precipitation has no scientific basis, UzHydromet stated.

According to the agency, acid precipitation forms from the accumulation of sulfur oxides (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NO₂) in the atmosphere. These substances react chemically with water vapor in clouds, which can lead to acid rain.

Such processes are primarily characteristic of industrial areas and locations near emission sources. When air masses travel long distances, the concentration of pollutants decreases significantly due to atmospheric turbulence, vertical mixing, and both dry and wet deposition processes.

UzHydromet emphasized that the formation of dangerous acid precipitation concentrations thousands of kilometers from the source is practically impossible. Moreover, precipitation is linked to local cloud formation processes: falling rain originates from water vapor and aerosols present in the atmosphere directly above a given area.

Meteorological observations and air quality monitoring data show no threat of “acid clouds” reaching Uzbekistan or neighboring countries.

UzHydromet urged the media not to spread unverified information and to rely only on official sources. The agency also reminded that spreading false information in the media or on social networks is subject to legal liability.