Chernobyl Survivor Recalls Fiery Ordeal

In 1986, a Chernobyl operator shared his harrowing experience during the reactor No. 4 malfunction. He described arriving to see the block destroyed and observed colleagues exhibiting severe radiation sickness, including pale complexions and red skin, with many later dying.

He recounted the visible signs of radiation exposure, such as red skin and burns, which were widely discussed but seldom depicted. The operator also detailed the courageous actions of plant workers who dived to open a crucial drainage valve, preventing a potentially far worse explosion.

The tragedy resulted in the deaths of 29 power station workers and firefighters from acute radiation syndrome within weeks. Three plant officials received lengthy labor camp sentences for their roles in the disaster.

This event is believed to have ended the Soviet government's culture of secrecy, which contributed to the disaster. The operator noted that attempts to stop the reactor instead led to its explosion.