Hormuz sands glow red: Rare 'blood rain' transforms landscape
Social media have been flooded with photos from the beaches on Hormuz Island in Iran, where the sand has taken on a deep red hue. This rare phenomenon has been observed in two locations.
This event, known as "blood rain", occurs when heavy rainfall washes down iron oxide-rich soil from the mountains, causing the water in rivers and streams to turn red. Although it can occur throughout the year, it is rare due to the specific mineral composition of the soil.
On the Iranian island, views are out of this world
In recent days, numerous photos showcasing this extraordinary phenomenon have appeared online. It must be said that the island's landscape looks quite apocalyptic due to this phenomenon. Steeped in red, the beach and rocks appear other-worldly.
The Iranian tourism organization highlights on its official website that the red soil of Hormuz is of significant economic value and is exported for various industries, including dyeing, cosmetics, glass, and ceramics. The island is also known as the "rainbow island" due to the presence of 70 colourful minerals in its soil.
The phenomenon is caused by iron oxide
The NASA Earth Observatory explains that layers of clay, carbonates, shale, and volcanic rocks, rich in iron, have taken on vivid shades of red, yellow, and orange.
As you walk on the beach, you can see how the sand shimmers with metallic compounds, which is particularly captivating at sunrise or sunset. This phenomenon not only attracts tourists but also highlights the unique geological properties of Hormuz Island, making it a place worth seeing with your own eyes.
