For some, the first snowfall of the season is a cause for frustration.<br /><br /> But in Tehran, it could actually be life saving.<br /><br /> The snow has temporarily cleared the air following weeks of heavy smog and pollution in the Iranian capital. More than 400 people are reported to have died as a direct result of the recent poor conditions.<br /><br /> After being forced to stay inside, children are now out in the streets playing in the snow. Local woman Sholoufeh Samadi was also out on the streets.<br /><br /> “This morning I was feeling great, she said. “It is very pleasant and sweet weather especially after a period of air pollution. All I was thinking about this morning was finishing up work quickly and then coming out to play in the snow.”<br /><br /> Officials say a lack of rainfall, the poor quality of fuel and a number of factories on the outskirts of the city have all contributed to the pollution, which was classified ‘red’, meaning ‘unhealthy’ for everyone. <br /><br /> Schools were closed and children, pregnant women and the elderly were encouraged to remain indoors.<br /><br /> In an attempt to stem the smog, authorities fined the drivers of vehicles deemed to spew out too much smoke.<br />
