Rain collected in pails in S'pore reveal haze-infused rainwater blackish & filthy

Photos and videos have circulated online showing the state of rainwater collected in pails in Singapore following a downpour on Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026, as hazy conditions persisted.

The rainwater collected in receptacles appeared greyish and blackish.

A number of photos and videos have been shared on social media of this phenomenon.

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Reactions

The photos and videos drew a slew of comments, some expressing shock and disbelief.

Those who expressed disbelief wrote that the pails or the area above them might have been dirty or contaminated in the first place, which resulted in the blackish water.

Some claimed the photos and videos might have been exaggerated or faked as they did not show public housing blocks or pavements covered in a layer of soot.

This drew responses from others who shared other photos and videos shot in Singapore of rainwater collection.

Those who expressed shock wrote that the same impurities seen in the water will also be present in people's lungs from breathing in the haze in the air.

What caused phenomenon

Haze from forest fires contain soot, ash, and unburned carbon.

The process where rain washes fine particles, including PM2.5, out of the air is known as "wet deposition", or "rain scavenging".

The relief is usually short-lived.

But the resultant grey and murky residue can coat cars and plants when they fall on the ground with the rain.