According to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), radiation levels at Chernobyl remain normal despite an explosion reported at the new sarcophagus protecting the remains of Reactor Four at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine.
The explosion, which raised concerns, did not result in elevated radiation levels, according to official reports.
Explosion and Immediate Response
The blast was heard at 1:50 AM local time on early Friday morning.
According to the IAEA, the explosion caused a fire, but radiation levels inside and outside Chernobyl remain stable and within normal limits.
No casualties have been reported, the agency confirmed.
Drone Strike on the Sarcophagus Roof
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the IAEA stated that its members were informed a drone struck the roof of the sarcophagus.
A security alert was immediately issued, and firefighting teams were deployed to contain the situation.
The IAEA is closely monitoring the situation, ensuring that any potential risks are managed.
IAEA Chief Warns of Ongoing Nuclear Security Risks
IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi emphasized that the incident at Chernobyl, along with the recent increase in military activity around the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, highlights persistent nuclear safety risks in the region.
“There is no room for complacency, and the IAEA remains on high alert,” Grossi stated.
