Chernobyl Disaster: A Timeline of Events

Explosion and Radiation Release

26 April 1986

At 1:23 AM, the No. 4 reactor at the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant exploded. The blast released large amounts of radioactive material into the atmosphere.

Immediate Impact

The explosion and radiation release caused 31 immediate fatalities. Many more people would later die due to radiation exposure.

Evacuation and Containment

The surrounding city of Pripyat was evacuated on 27 April. A massive effort was launched to contain the radiation and prevent its spread.

Long-Term Effects

The Chernobyl disaster had a profound impact on the surrounding environment and human health. Large areas of land were contaminated, and many people were forced to relocate.

Legacy and Impact

Chernobyl remains the worst nuclear disaster in history, both in terms of immediate casualties and long-term effects. It has raised important questions about the safety of nuclear power and the need for a global response to nuclear disasters.

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