Iran issues rare nuclear survival advisory, tells citizens to stay indoors and shut off ACs
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Iranian authorities have issued a rare public advisory on surviving a nuclear explosion, instructing citizens to seek shelter, avoid radioactive contamination, and remain indoors for at least 24 hours after a potential attack.
The eight-minute educational video, published by state news agency IRNA on October 29, advises people to seek shelter in basements or rooms away from windows, close doors and windows, and switch off air conditioners and ventilation systems that draw in outside air.
Ebrahim Adelzadeh of the Isfahan Red Crescent Society said a basement or a central room in a sturdy building could provide suitable shelter.
People caught outdoors during an explosion have been advised not to look at the flash. They should lie close to the ground, take cover behind a barrier, and protect their heads and faces before moving to the nearest sturdy building once the blast wave passes. Authorities have also warned against using vehicles as shelters.
The advisory cautions that radioactive particles could travel through the atmosphere and affect areas far from the explosion site. People potentially exposed to radioactive dust should carefully remove their outer clothing, seal it in bags, and wash exposed skin and hair with soap and lukewarm water. Citizens have also been advised to use packaged food and bottled water.
Officials warned against taking iodine tablets without medical advice, saying they offer protection only against certain forms of radioactive iodine exposure. The video also highlights the risk of electromagnetic pulses disrupting electronic equipment and recommends battery-powered radios for official updates.
The advisory comes amid speculation over a possible US strike on Pickaxe Mountain, a deeply buried nuclear-related site near Iran's Natanz facility. US President Donald Trump had said on October 16 that Washington might target the site, while ruling out the use of nuclear weapons.
Iran has linked the guidance to its annual Passive Defence Week. However, its detailed instructions have drawn attention as a departure from Tehran's public messaging during the June 2025 Israel-US strikes, when officials said radiation had not spread beyond the targeted facilities.