Debunking Misinformation: Truth Behind Red Waters Images

Recently, images showcasing a reservoir with water resembling blood have been circulating rapidly on social media. Originating from a TikTok user, these startling visuals are accompanied by an alarming caption that states, "The Nile River in Egypt is red, and the Euphrates has dried up. Wake up world." This post, complete with references to biblical prophecy (specifically one of the 7 plagues of Egypt) and a call to prayer, has stirred up a flurry of comments, many of which allude to the Middle East conflict. 

Soon, this news found its way into Italian national newspapers. However, the truth is far from the sensational claims made in these posts.

The real story behind the viral video

Contrary to what the viral video suggests, the images are not from the Maghreb region or Africa. Instead, they depict a scene from distant Chile. The Associated Press (AP) debunked the misinformation, confirming that the red waters shown are from the Laguna Roja, a body of water nestled in the Andes, just a short drive from the Chilean city of Iquique.

Our team at FREE AstroScience compared the frames from the viral video with actual images of the lagoon, and the landscapes matched perfectly. A local tour guide further confirmed this, explaining that the indigenous Aymara people consider the Laguna Roja sacred. The water, he clarified, is clear and takes on a red hue due to its bottom. "It's a magical place gifted by nature," he added.

The mystery behind the red coloration

For years, researchers have been exploring what causes the water's unique red coloration. Marine biologist Walter Sielfeld, who has been studying the area, explained that the color results from the presence of certain minerals and a proliferation of microorganisms, especially during oceanic phenomena like El Niño.

In conclusion, while the plagues of Egypt make for an interesting story, the actual plague we face today is the spread of unverified news.

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