Ukraine: Authorities suspend all traffic on Crimean Bridge in Kerch after fuel tanker explodes early Oct. 8

Event

A fuel tanker exploded on the rail line portion of the Crimean Bridge in Kerch connecting the Crimean Peninsula to Russia early Oct. 8. Authorities closed the bridge to both rail and vehicle traffic as emergency personnel deployed to put out a fire that broke out following the blast. Local officials claim that the bridge's support arches are not damaged. The cause of the explosion is unclear.

A heightened security and emergency presence is likely in the area over the coming hours. Travel and business disruptions are also likely until the fire is extinguished and officials confirm the bridge is safe for travel.

Advice

Avoid travel to active conflict zones in the Kharkiv, Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson regions of Ukraine; consider leaving these areas by available ground transport if safe to do so. Exercise extreme caution if operating anywhere in Ukraine. Shelter in place if there is fighting or airstrikes in the area. Stay away from windows and exterior walls if officials report incoming rocket or artillery fire. Follow the instructions of local security personnel, especially when instructed to seek refuge in air raid shelters. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations. Due to the threat of unexploded ordnance, avoid off-road travel. Travel on well-used routes only. Do not approach suspected unexploded ordnance. In areas previously occupied by Russian forces, be aware of booby traps.