The earthquake and the subsequent nuclear blast in Japan have started a series of rumors asking people not to go out in the rain lest they get caught in radioactive showers which could cause skin cancers and other ailments. It is also labeled as Acid Rain.
There are different version of emails, SMS messages, and alerts in different countries and regions. These alerts have been reported to be spreading through social network websites like Facebook too.
These rumors and chain mails started by unknown sources warn people from going out in the rain as "radioactive particles, which may cause burns, alopecia or even cancer, may be in the rain." The mails warn people to use raincoats, umbrellas and scarves even if there is only a light drizzle, as even some part of the allegedly radioactive waters could be harmful.
Experts have rubbished these rumors saying there is no scientific or logical basis to these rumors. Also, even in the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, one of the worst nuclear power plant accidents in history where huge amounts of radiation was released, only the neigbouring countries were affected. No other part of the world was affected.
Such baseless rumors must be curbed and instead of creating panic, people must focus on what they could do to help quake victims.
The chain email reads something like this:
Nuclear Fallout from Japanese Power Plants
There was a nuclear blast 4:30pm Sunday in Fukushima Japan. 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.
BBC flash news: Japan government confirms radiation leak at Fukushima nuclear plants. Asian countries should take necessary precautions. If it rains, remain indoors first 24hours, close doors n windows, swab neck skin with beta-dine where thyroid area is, radiation hits thyroid first. Take extra precautions, radiation may hit Philippines starting 4pm (Pinas time) today!
Please take care of yourselves and your loved ones!!
There are different version of emails, SMS messages, and alerts in different countries and regions. These alerts have been reported to be spreading through social network websites like Facebook too.
Experts have rubbished these rumors saying there is no scientific or logical basis to these rumors. Also, even in the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, one of the worst nuclear power plant accidents in history where huge amounts of radiation was released, only the neigbouring countries were affected. No other part of the world was affected.
Such baseless rumors must be curbed and instead of creating panic, people must focus on what they could do to help quake victims.
yes, i agree
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