As of 11:00 AM on May 8, the radiation situation across Ukraine, particularly in the northern Kyiv region, is reported to be stable. This information was confirmed by the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
According to data from the National Hydrometeorological Service of Ukraine’s State Emergency Service, gamma radiation levels are within normal ranges throughout the country.
“In case of conflicting information in the public domain, we ask you to rely solely on official sources. The firefighting efforts in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone are ongoing. We will provide timely updates on the radiation situation in the country,” the statement read.
In the Kyiv region, firefighters are working to extinguish a blaze in the Exclusion Zone, which has affected an estimated area of over 1,100 hectares. The situation is complicated by dry weather, strong winds, and the presence of landmines in certain areas.
Previously, meteorologists had declared an extreme fire danger level in Kyiv and the surrounding region from May 6 to May 8. The weather conditions are conducive to a high likelihood of fire outbreaks and their spread in natural areas, especially where open flames are present.
The Chernobyl Exclusion Zone is an area restricted from public access due to severe contamination from long-lived radionuclides resulting from the 1986 Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant disaster. Established in 1986 following the evacuation of residents from a 30-kilometer radius around the plant, the zone covers an area of 2,576.9 square kilometers. It includes the northern part of the Vyshhorod district of Kyiv region, where the power station, as well as the towns of Chernobyl and Pripyat, are located, and parts of Zhytomyr region up to the border with Belarus.
The radiation levels in Ukraine remain stable despite ongoing firefighting efforts in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, which has been affected by a significant wildfire. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing the importance of relying on official sources for information.