In connection with information circulating in certain sources about the alleged possible movement of so-called “acid clouds” to the Central Asian region following an incident on the territory of Iran, the Agency for Hydrometeorology reports the following.
According to the analysis of the synoptic situation for March 9–10, weather conditions in the territory of Tajikistan and neighboring countries were determined by the passage of a cold front and the intrusion of a cold air mass of northwestern origin. These processes were accompanied by a sharp drop in air temperature, strengthening of westerly and northwesterly winds, precipitation, and a transition from rain to snow, including in valley and foothill areas. Earlier, the Agency for Hydrometeorology of the Committee for Environmental Protection under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan had issued a timely storm warning regarding these phenomena, and the forecasted synoptic processes were generally confirmed.
Taking into account the prevailing atmospheric circulation, the main transport of air masses during the period under consideration was oriented from the northwest to the southeast, which does not indicate the formation of a direct transfer of air masses from the area of Iran toward Tajikistan and other Central Asian countries. Additionally, it should be noted that during precipitation a natural washout of aerosol impurities from the atmosphere occurs, and when pollutants are transported over long distances their concentration significantly decreases due to turbulent mixing, dispersion, and deposition.
Thus, based on the available meteorological data, analysis of the synoptic situation, and current observations, the reports about the formation and transport of “acid clouds” to the region do not have sufficient scientific confirmation. At present, there are no grounds to conclude that there is a threat of the transfer of such polluted air masses to the territory of the Republic of Tajikistan. Moreover, according to data from the republic’s meteorological stations, as well as the atmospheric air pollution monitoring station in the city of Dushanbe, no cases of toxic clouds or toxic precipitation have been recorded.
The Agency continues to monitor the synoptic and environmental situation and, if necessary, will promptly inform the relevant state authorities and the public in accordance with the established procedures.
12.03.2026