Source: CBS
Speaking on CBS’ The Early Show, Carnegie's James Acton addressed the situation in Japanese nuclear reactors damaged by the recent earthquake and tsunami. He acknowledged that the past 24 hours have been particularly bad. Ways for radiation to leak out into the environment have increased following the explosion within the containment building surrounding unit 2 of the plant. Similarly, the fact that spent fuel rods have caught fire also increases the opportunity for radiation to leak.
Acton stated that a catastrophic release of radiation, similar to the tragedy at Chernobyl, is extremely unlikely. However, it is becoming increasingly difficult to contain the smaller releases of radiation that are occurring, which are still quite serious.
Ultimately, Acton said, there are no good solutions to the situation currently facing the Japanese government. They are facing extraordinary challenges trying to respond to the earthquake, the tsunami, and the problems in nuclear energy plants.