On April 26, 1986, a catastrophic explosion occurred at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant in Ukraine, releasing massive amounts of radioactive material. The disaster was caused by a flawed reactor design and human error during a routine test. In the immediate aftermath, emergency responders attempted to contain the damage and radiation, but many suffered immediate and long-term health effects from exposure. Today, Chernobyl serves as a memorial for the victims, and its legacy continues to highlight the dangers of nuclear power and importance of safety regulations.