DESTRUCTION OF THE KAKHOVKA RESERVOIR AS A RESULT OF HOSTILITIES: DYNAMICS OF CHANGE AND CONSEQUENCES FOR THE ENVIRONMENT

Abstract

The results of the study of the dynamics of changes in the territory of the Kakhovka reservoir before and after the explosion of the dam on June 6, 2023 are presented. This led to the destruction of the Kakhovka reservoir and the sharp flooding of significant areas downstream of the Dnieper River, including the delta. The analysis was carried out on two indicators: the water surface area and the water level. As a result of the analysis of space images, it was found that the area of the Kakhovka reservoir decreased by 80% from its original. The results of the analysis of the flooded area downstream of the Dnieper River from the dam showed that the water surface area at the peak of flooding increased 3.7 times and the water level has increased from 1 to 7 m above sea level. The destruction of the Kakhovka reservoir affected the fish population, local bird populations and nesting colonies of migratory birds, the bottom (benthos) and terrestrial fauna, the flora of the reservoir and the flora of the Dnieper River Delta. This disaster affected rare types of biotopes, there was also a decrease in the delta islands and partially their destruction. The lower reaches of the tributaries of the Dnieper River were flooded. The territories of the nature reserve fund, environmental objects and wetlands of international importance and the territories of the Emerald Network were especially affected. Contaminated fresh water came to the Black Sea. All this has disastrous consequences for the environment.