Atyrau: Hydrogen Sulfide Levels Soar 11 Times Above Norm Due to Fire

For the third day in a row, thick smoke has blanketed Atyrau. A heavy smog lingers over the city, and residents report a strong, acrid smell in the air, Orda.kz reports.

Locals say it's become difficult to breathe, open windows, or even go outside. Environmental officials have confirmed that hydrogen sulfide levels in the air have exceeded safe limits by more than 11 times.

The source of the pollution is a massive fire burning through dry reeds in the Aqjaiyq Nature Reserve on the outskirts of the city. Dead vegetation has been smoldering for several days, producing dense smoke.

We’re suffocating, we have headaches, and children are coughing. This isn’t just uncomfortable anymore, it’s a serious health risk. What’s worse is that no one can tell us when it will stop,said Aigul Serikova, a resident of Atyrau. 

Environmental authorities have recorded hazardous spikes in hydrogen sulfide, a colorless gas with the smell of rotten eggs that, with prolonged exposure, can cause headaches, nausea, respiratory irritation, and, in high concentrations, even loss of consciousness.

As the air quality continues to deteriorate, residents have taken to social media to share photos of the smoke and express concern for their health. Many are demanding urgent action from local authorities. Some are calling for an official emergency to be declared and for schools and kindergartens to close temporarily.

Health officials and the emergency services are advising residents to stay indoors as much as possible, keep windows closed, wear wet masks, and only ventilate rooms when air conditions improve.

Original Author: Daniel Arturov