Loss-of-coolant accident

A loss-of-coolant accident (LOCA) is a type of nuclear accident. It happens when there is a sudden loss of coolant, which is a liquid or gas that is used to keep the nuclear reactor cool. When the coolant is lost, the reactor can experience an increase in temperature, which could lead to an accident. So, nuclear plants have to be careful to keep the right amount of coolant at all times.