Dust cloud blankets parts of Iran’s southern and western provinces

Ali Fathizadeh said people in Abadan must avoid leaving the house unnecessarily, especially the elderly, children and ailing people.

He urged Abadanis to wear masks outdoors under these circumstances.

The Khuzestan Meteorological Department issued an orange warning on Thursday regarding the entry of dust into the province from Iraq on Friday. Meanwhile, thick dust has caused problems in parts of the western provinces of Ilam and Kermanshah.

A meteorologist in Ilam says visibility in the cities of Mehran and Dehloran is less than 100 meters but it varies in other cities and towns there.

A medical source warn particulates exacerbate respiratory diseases and asthma in high-risk groups, including the elderly, children and pregnant mothers.

He added that risks differ depending on the substances in the particulates.

The official also said the particulates can contain depleted uranium particles from the Persian Gulf War in the deserts of Iraq, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia under certain conditions.

He said: “These particles are very dangerous and can cause cancer and incurable diseases, urging people to avoid exposure to polluted air as much as possible and to wear standard masks when leaving home.