KYIV, 15 June 2023 – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Kyiv School of Economics Institute (KSE) today released an extensive analysis and preliminary findings from the study of four settlements impacted by the devastating explosion at the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Station. 

This joint analysis of UNDP, KSE, and Vox Ukraine, funded by the European Union sought to quantify the extent of the flood damage affecting the settlements of Korsunka, Kozachi Lageri, Nova Kakhovka, and Rayske. 

According to the report, 7,206 buildings were potentially affected, 9,573 were fully inundated, and 2,189 saw partial flooding. The total area covered by the floodwaters is an astounding 2,532,462.2 square meters. The figures are derived from a meticulous examination of satellite imagery, open-source data, and other available information. The report serves as an invaluable resource in understanding the extent of this unprecedented disaster, and for strategizing relief efforts.

UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine Jaco Cilliers emphasized the significance of this analysis. 

“The scale of this event is enormous, and it is crucial that we understand the full extent of its impact,” he said. “The data from this report is helping us comprehend the magnitude of the disaster, which in turn will guide us in our recovery and rebuilding efforts.”

Nataliia Shapoval, the head of the KSE Institute, said the institute had started to collect data on damages and losses caused to the Ukrainian economy and its citizens since the beginning of the full-scale invasion. 

“In this research on the destruction of the Kakhovka dam, we partnered with UNDP and VOX Ukraine, which obtained and analysed satellite imagery to provide data for our damage calculations,” Shapoval said.

“With the help of our international partners, and in cooperation with the Ukrainian government and Office of the President, Ukraine is utilizing all available modern technologies to gather information quickly and reliably. All of this will enable a more effective recovery of Ukraine’s regions and sectors.”

The data used in this comprehensive study was initially sourced from satellite images published by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) on 7 June 2023 and onwards. The report's methodology involved a multistage process, including the use of news data to refine information about the flooded areas.

This preliminary analysis is only the first step towards understanding the full scope of the disaster. UNDP and the Kyiv School of Economics Institute are committed to providing ongoing updates and analysis as recovery efforts continue.

Media enquiries: For additional information or to arrange interviews, please contact Yuliia Samus, UNDP Ukraine Head of Communications; e-mail: yuliia.samus@undp.org

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