Chernobyl

On the 26th of April 1986, the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant became known worldwide for being home to the worst nuclear disaster in history. Following an explosion in Reactor 4 of the plant, a fire burned for 10 days, releasing nearly 30-40 times more nuclear fallout than the Hiroshima Bombs. After the disaster, an exclusion zone was established, and the human inhabitants were ordered to evacuate. Over the years, people have started to return to the zone: some for work, others to return to their former homes, and most as tourists eager to experience the nuclear wasteland.

As time passed and the zone was no longer inhabited or maintained, nature also found its way back. In the absence of humans, plants and animals were able to thrive once again. What remains now is a sad but beautiful reminder of the horrifying incident that occurred here more than 30 years ago.

These images were taken during a day visit, but they barely scratch the surface of what remains there. At some point, I hope to return for a longer period to explore the exclusion zone with more time available.