In early February 1972, a catastrophic blizzard descended upon Iran, creating unimaginable challenges for the regions affected. The storm initially hit on February 3, quickly escalating in intensity, and lasting seven consecutive days. The areas most impacted were in northern Iran, particularly in provinces like Zanjan, Qazvin, and Gilan. Snow accumulations reached astonishing depths, with reports indicating that some areas faced drifts up to six meters high, effectively burying homes and isolating entire communities. The blizzard affected the infrastructure dramatically, leading to power failures across towns, disrupting communications, and blocking major roads that hindered emergency responses.

Rescue operations were hampered further by the continuous snow, making mobility nearly impossible for ground crews. The Iranian government faced severe criticism for its slow response to the disaster and lack of preparedness. Efforts included deploying helicopters and other resources to inaccessible areas, but many villages remained cut off for days, leaving residents exposed to the brutal winter conditions without food or medical assistance. As temperatures plummeted, the situation deteriorated rapidly, and the death toll continued to rise.

By the end of this severe weather event, at least 4,000 people were reported dead, mostly from hypothermia, malnutrition, and accidents related to the storm. In addition to human costs, the damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and local economies was significant, leading to a lengthy recovery period for many of the affected areas. The event became a centerpiece of discussions regarding climate preparedness in Iran, highlighting vulnerabilities in disaster response mechanisms.