In the village of Manevychi in the Volyn region, following a Russian drone attack on 16 October 2026, an emergency situation arose at one of the local businesses, which could result in an ammonia leak into the atmosphere. Oleksandr Havryliuk, head of the Manevychi community, urged residents to stay indoors, close their windows and doors, and follow the advice of the emergency services. Meanwhile, one person was killed and eight others were injured as a result of the strike on the factory.
- In Manevychi, following a Russian attack, a warning was issued about a possible ammonia leak.
- The head of the community urged residents to close their windows and doors and switch off the ventilation.
- One person was killed and eight others were injured as a result of the attack on the factory.
- Around 20 Russian drones were sent towards Volyn during the night.
A warning has been issued in Manevychi about a possible ammonia leak
On the morning of 16 October, the head of the Manevychi settlement community Oleksandr Havryliuk issued a public statement regarding a possible emergency at one of the factories.
According to him, there is a risk of ammonia being released into the atmosphere. The official urged residents not to panic and to be prepared to follow the advice of the emergency services.
«In view of the potential risk of an emergency at one of the village’s industrial sites, which could result in an ammonia leak into the atmosphere, we ask residents to remain calm, be vigilant and follow safety guidelines,» said Gavryliuk.
It is important to note that this refers specifically to a potential risk of a chemical accident, rather than a confirmed leak. No data has yet been released regarding the actual concentration of ammonia in the air, the extent of the potential contamination or the need for a general evacuation of the population.
Russian drones attacked a factory: one person has been killed and others injured
On the night of 15 October, Russian forces launched a large-scale attack on the Volyn region, using, according to regional authorities, around 20 rocket-powered drones. Civilian and critical infrastructure facilities were hit, including a private enterprise in Manevychi.
According to updated information from the acting head of the Volyn Regional State Administration Roman Romanyuk, one person was killed and eight others were injured as a result of the attack on the «Agrofruit Ltd» site. A fire broke out on the site. According to the morning report, the fire had been contained, but fire-fighting operations were still ongoing.
Initially, the authorities reported that two people had been injured and five were unaccounted for. The details of the strike’s aftermath were subsequently clarified.
What residents should do in the event of an ammonia leak
Ammonia is a colourless gas with a pungent, characteristic odour. In high concentrations, it can cause eye irritation, coughing, difficulty breathing, chemical burns and poisoning.
The Manevychi community has published guidelines on what to do in the event of a confirmed hazardous release.
Residents are advised to:
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Go immediately into the nearest building and close the windows, doors and ventilation openings tightly.
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Switch off air-conditioning units and ventilation systems that draw in air from outside.
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Where possible, stay on the lower floors of buildings, following the instructions issued by the State Emergency Service.
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Use a suitable gas mask or chemical respirator. A damp cloth may only be a temporary measure and does not provide reliable protection against ammonia.
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Do not go out unless absolutely necessary.
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In the event of an evacuation order, follow the designated routes in accordance with the instructions given by the emergency services.
If a person finds themselves in an area affected by chemical contamination and is able to leave it safely, rescue workers recommend moving at right angles to the direction of the wind.
If you develop a cough, severe eye irritation or difficulty breathing, you must seek medical assistance.
Emergency numbers: 101, 103 or 112.
Hundreds of thousands of people in Volyn were left without electricity following a massive attack
Russian strikes on the night of 16 October also caused widespread power cuts in the Volyn region. As of 08:00 Around 370,000 customers were left without electricity.
According to an update from the Volyn Regional State Administration, as of 10.45, the number of people without power had fallen to 270,000. In the regional capital, utility services were using backup power supplies to ensure the operation of critical facilities. In Volyn, stationary ‘Points of Resilience’ are also being brought back into operation.
The regional authorities have urged residents not to ignore air-raid sirens, to avoid crowded places and to keep up to date with official information. The situation in Manevychi remains under the control of the relevant services. The full extent of the damage caused by the Russian attack and the condition of the damaged facility are currently being assessed.
