Viral video captures ‘blood rain’ event in Iran
A video shared by a tour guide has gone viral on social media, showcasing a striking scene of a blood-red beach and tides in Iran during heavy rainfall.
The video, which has sparked a mix of horror and fascination, shows a beach turning bright red amid the rain. While some social media users speculated about extreme weather or mysterious phenomena, the truth is much simpler. This unusual sight is caused by a specific type of soil found in the region.
Though originally posted last month, the video recently gained widespread attention after being shared by a tour guide on Instagram. The caption, translated from Persian to English, reads, "The start of the heavy rain at the famous Red Beach of Hormoz. Serasima tourists seeing this rain is amazing."
In the video, heavy rainfall washes crimson soil onto the beach, mixing with the seawater and turning the tides a vivid red.
Where is this beach located?
The beach is on the "Rainbow Island" in the Strait of Hormuz, Iran. The area remains relatively undisturbed due to its sparse population.
When does the "blood rain" phenomenon occur?
This stunning natural phenomenon can be observed year-round by tourists visiting this remote island, located miles from the Iranian mainland.
What causes the red color?
According to the Iranian tourism board, as reported by CNN, the red hue results from the high concentration of iron oxide in the soil. When the soil mixes with seawater, it creates the unique reddish tint on the beach.
Is the soil valuable?
Yes, the "gelack" soil found on the island is used in various industries. It is utilized for industrial purposes, cosmetics, dyeing, ceramics, and glass. Additionally, the soil is used in local cuisine, particularly for making jams and sauces, according to a local tourist board.