The Gravelines nuclear power station in northern France faced operational interruptions due to an unusual issue involving a large aggregation of jellyfish. This unexpected event led to the clogging of pumping stations linked to the facility, necessitating the temporary shutdown of four out of its six reactors.

The jellyfish were reported to be concentrated within the filter drums of the pumping stations, which posed a significant threat to operations. The plant’s operator, EDF, confirmed that the presence of jellyfish did not compromise the safety of the operation or personnel. The reactors were automatically shut down as part of pre-existing safety measures while steps were taken to resolve the blockage issue.

According to reports, two of the reactors are now being gradually reconnected to the national electrical grid. Safety protocols appear effective, yet the incident underscores the recurring safety risks posed by unexpected marine life interactions with infrastructure. Professor Erica Hendy from the University of Bristol highlighted that dead jellyfish could ’liquefy into a gel’, potentially causing significant problems within the plant’s systems.