Ukraine: Russian missiles strike civilian buildings in Chernihiv Aug. 19 /update 1

Event

Ukrainian officials have confirmed that seven people have been killed and 129 others injured after a Russian missile struck civilian buildings in Chernihiv's central square early Aug. 19; among the wounded were 15 children. The attack occurred while Ukrainians were attending church services to celebrate the Orthodox holiday of the Transfiguration of the Lord and damaged a church, theater, and university building.

Chernihiv is located approximately 130 km (80 miles) north-northeast of Kyiv.

Disruptions to transport and business are likely in Chernihiv over the coming hours as the emergency response is ongoing. Authorities conduct search and rescue operations. The damage incurred in the attack may cause lingering utility disruptions. Further missile strikes are likely in the coming days.

Advice

Avoid the impacted site. Consider taking alternative routes to circumvent affected areas. Heed all instructions issued by local authorities.

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. Download the AirAlert mobile application to receive an air alert notification in your chosen city or region of Ukraine from the Civil Defense System. 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.