Paris: An explosion occurred at French utility EDF's Flamanville nuclear plant on Thursday but there was no associated nuclear risk, a local government official said on Thursday.
The town is located near the Channel Islands, which are situated off the north-western coast of the country.
A statement from EDF said that the fire was under control and that there as no risk of contamination. In addition, no deaths have been reported as a result of the explosion.
A report in Ouest France newspaper said there may be some injuries. M6 radio said five people were slightly injured.
The 1,300 MW each Flamanville 1 and 2 reactors were build in the 1980s. A new reactor is being built at the site but the explosion did not take place there, a spokeswoman said.
The nuclear safety authority ASN said it had no information and could not immediately comment.
More to follow.