If you’ve been scrolling news feeds lately, you’ve probably seen the term “Russian shelling” pop up again and again. It refers to artillery fire from Russian forces that lands in civilian areas of Ukraine. The attacks can happen at any time, often without warning, and they leave behind broken windows, damaged roofs, and a lot of fear.
Why does it matter to you? Even if you’re not in the direct line of fire, the ripple effects reach nearby towns, cause power outages, and disrupt everyday routines. Knowing what’s going on helps you make smarter choices—whether that means planning a safer route home or staying stocked on emergency supplies.
In the past month, cities like Kharkiv, Mariupol, and Zaporizhzhia have reported the heaviest shelling. In Kharkiv, neighborhoods near the railway saw multiple strikes that shattered glass in apartment blocks. Mariupol’s port area was hit twice within 24 hours, forcing locals to evacuate temporarily. Zaporizhzhia’s industrial zone suffered damage that halted power for several thousand residents.
Each incident brings a mix of immediate danger and longer‑term challenges: disrupted water supplies, blocked roads, and strained medical services. Local authorities usually post real‑time alerts on municipal websites or social media, so following those channels can give you the quickest heads‑up.
First thing – stay calm. Panic only makes things worse. If you hear an air‑raid siren or see a flash, drop to the ground and cover your head with your arms. The safest spot is inside a sturdy building, away from windows. If you’re outdoors, lie flat in a ditch or behind solid objects like a concrete wall.
Keep an emergency kit ready: bottled water, non‑perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, and any essential medication. A portable radio helps you catch official updates when the internet goes down. Also, make a short list of emergency contacts—family, neighbors, and local shelters.
When it’s safe to move, check for hazards before entering damaged buildings. Look out for live wires, gas leaks, or unstable structures. If you notice any of these, call the nearest emergency service number right away.
Lastly, stay connected with reliable sources. Trusted news sites, official government pages, and reputable NGOs provide accurate information without the hype. Avoid sharing unverified rumors on social media; they can cause unnecessary panic.
Russian shelling is a harsh reality for many people, but staying informed and prepared can reduce its impact on your life. Keep an eye on local alerts, maintain a basic emergency kit, and know where to find safe shelter. By taking these simple steps, you’ll be better equipped to protect yourself and your loved ones when the next strike happens.
Ismail Hacioglu, head of the Sultan Suleiman Mosque Foundation, has denied claims by Ukraine's foreign ministry about the mosque being struck by Russian forces in Mariupol. Despite reports stating that the mosque, sheltering civilians including Turks, was hit, Hacioglu clarified that the nearest explosion occurred 700 meters away. Amidst dire conditions, the mosque persists in sheltering civilians and providing stored water.