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E-mail claims about radioactive rain debunked

Al Ain: People have been urged to ignore e-mail warnings about the possibility of toxic rain or radioactive particles from the nuclear disaster in Japan reaching the country. A meteorologist has declared the e-mail claims a hoax.

The possibility of tiny traces of radioactive particles from the Japanese nuclear plant in Fukushima reaching the Middle East is extremely remote, said the official, requesting anonymity.

The e-mail in question has been rampant in Australia, the United States and Canada from where it probably originated.

Small traces of radioactive particles such as xenon and iodine-131 have been detected in Australia, Malaysia and other countries close to Japan. These particles were also found recently as far away as Canada and several international agencies stepped up monitoring of the situation although the particles are mostly considered harmless to human health.

Alarming message

The e-mail, which has been received by many Gulf News readers, reads: "If it rains today or in the next few days, do not go under the rain. If you get caught out, use an umbrella or raincoat, even if it's only a drizzle. Radioactive particles, which may cause burns, alopecia or even cancer, may be in the rain."

The meteorologist said that seasonal weather changes are setting in. "We have not heard of the presence of radioactive particles in the south-eastern countries such as Bangladesh and India and the Bay of Bengal from where the monsoon originates."

Referring to recent showers in Al Ain and eastern areas of the UAE, he said: "Chances of rain still exist in the area but people need not worry about the radiation as the area is still free of radioactive particles."


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