Acid Rain Falls In The Twin Cities Metro

MINNEAPOLIS — If you woke up Monday morning to find your car coated with a fresh layer of dirt, you're not alone. Cars parked outside across the metro suffered the same fate, with residue etched into the paint.

No, it wasn't the neighbor kids playing a Halloween prank. Instead, blame pollution.

"One of the most important times to wash your car is immediately after a rainfall," notes AutoDetailDoctor.com.

"Many people think that when the car sits under the rain, the rainwater will wash the dirt and salt off the car. Not true. Actually, rainwater can cause even more damage than it helps."

On their way down from the sky, raindrops collect pollutants and contaminants from the air and become "acid rain." The water evaporates, but a gross layer of soil stays behind.

Experts recommend cleaning the acid rain off as soon as possible. A rag soaked in diluted ammonia or vinegar will safely and efficiently wipe away the grime.