UPDATE on Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant Fire
A fire broke out in a training building outside the largest nuclear power plant in Europe during intense fighting between Russian and Ukrainian forces, Ukraine’s state emergency service said on Friday.
Panic triggered the statement from Ukraine: “Russian army is firing from all sides upon Zaporizhzhia NPP, the largest nuclear power plant in Europe. Fire has already broke out. If it blows up, it will be 10 times larger than Chornobyl! Russians must IMMEDIATELY cease the fire, allow firefighters, establish a security zone!” Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine reported.
Investigations were immediately undertaken.
“IAEA is aware of reports of shelling at #Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (NPP), in contact with Ukrainian authorities about situation.
“IAEA puts its Incident and Emergency Centre (@IAEAIEC) in full 24/7 response mode due to serious situation at #Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in #Ukraine.
One hour ago, Ukraine tells IAEA that fire at site of #Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant has not affected “essential” equipment, plant personnel taking mitigatory actions.
Two hours ago
@iaeaorg·IAEA Director General @RafaelMGrossi speaks with #Ukraine PM Denys Shmygal and with Ukrainian nuclear regulator and operator about serious situation at #Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, appeals for halt of use of force and warns of severe danger if reactors hit.
Earlier int he day IAEA reported;
‘Ukraine notifies IAEA that Russian forces are moving towards the nuclear power plant at #Zaporizhzhia ; IAEA Director General @RafaelMGrossi urges military forces to refrain from violence near the plant.
Alarms of huge Chernobyl like disasters were predicted, but as of now the fire is contained and the official update is that the reactors were being safely shut down.