21 July 2026

A UAV strike damaged the dam of the Belgorod Reservoir in Russia’s Shebekinsky District, triggering flooding downstream.

The local Pepel ➜ Belgorod Telegram channel reported the incident.

According to the channel, the drone attack took place on July 19. Satellite images published by the outlet appear to show an uncontrolled release of water from the reservoir and a breach in the roadway of the bridge that runs across the dam.

The damage makes it more difficult to repair the breach by filling it with earth or other material.

The channel reported that the dam was breached across the entire width of the spillway, with the damaged section measuring about 35 meters long.

Damage to the Belgorod Reservoir dam. July 19, 2026. Photo credits: Pepel ➜ Belgorod

The surge of water is rapidly filling the Nezhegol River, which flows through the town of Shebekino. As a result, infrastructure and buildings in the town’s riverside area have already been flooded.

Rising water levels in Shebekino, Russia. July 20, 2026. Photo: Ashes ➜ Belgorod

In the village of Bezlyudovka, located downstream, water levels have also risen, likely due to an increase in groundwater levels following the dam breach.

Local residents say a large “lake” has formed on Pobedy Street, making it difficult for both pedestrians and vehicles to pass through the area.

Last October, Ukraine’s 1st Unmanned Systems Forces Center had already struck the same dam.

The facility sustained significant damage and began leaking water. Local authorities also opened the floodgates to lower the reservoir’s water level and prevent the dam from collapsing completely.

UAV Strike Damages Reservoir Dam in Russia’s Belgorod Region, Causing Flooding