Fire is spreading in the Chernobyl exclusion zone after drone crash

image via New Scientist

May 8, 2026, 3:07 PM

• •A drone crash caused a large forest fire in the Chernobyl exclusion zone.
• •The fire has spread to at least 12 square kilometers.
• •Firefighting efforts are hampered by dry conditions, wind, and land mines.
• •Authorities believe the risk of radiation outside the zone is low.

A drone crash in the Chernobyl exclusion zone has ignited a fire that has spread to 12 square kilometers, though some estimates suggest the area is larger. The fire is complicated by dry weather, strong winds, and the presence of land mines, hindering efforts to bring the blaze under control. While the fire is serious, officials believe the risk of radioactive contamination outside the zone is minimal. Emergency responders, including 331 people and 75 pieces of equipment, are battling the blaze, hoping for rain to help contain it.

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