A large forest fire is ongoing in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, with the area affected now exceeding 1,100 hectares, according to the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (DSNS).
The DSNS reports that strong winds are contributing to the rapid spread of the flames, affecting new sections of the forest. Firefighters are facing significant challenges due to dry weather conditions and the presence of landmines in certain areas, which restricts firefighting efforts.
In some parts of the forest, operations have been temporarily halted due to the risk posed by unexploded ordnance. The situation is being closely monitored, as fires in the exclusion zone have been reported regularly.
According to DSNS statistics, over 11,000 fires occurred in Ukraine’s ecosystems during the first four months of 2023.
A significant forest fire in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone has spread to over 1,100 hectares, complicating firefighting efforts due to adverse weather and landmine risks. The ongoing situation reflects broader concerns about fire incidents in Ukrainian ecosystems.