Nuclear Bomb
Three Types of Nuclear Bombs
Fission (Atomic) Bombs: Powered by nuclear fission or the splitting of an atom. This is the only type of nuclear bomb that has ever been used in war (as of May 17, 2022.)
Hydrogen Bombs: Powered by nuclear fusion where the atoms combine (fuse together) instead of splitting. Because you have to achieve a temperature of millions of degrees to start a Hydrogen explosion, these are typically triggered by a fission bomb.
Radiological Bombs/Weapons or Dirty Bombs: Conventional explosives that spread radioactive material to make an area uninhabitable.
The Terrifying True Scale of Nuclear Weapons
What would happen if a nuclear bomb was detonated where you live? Below are two sites you can simulate various scenarios.
Outrider Interactive Nuclear Bomb Blast
SIMULATION of Nuclear War Between Russia and the United States
SGS developed a new simulation for a plausible escalating war between the United States and Russia using realistic nuclear force postures, targets and fatality estimates. It is estimated that there would be more than 90 million people dead and injured within the first few hours of the conflict.
This project is motivated by the need to highlight the potentially catastrophic consequences of current US and Russian nuclear war plans. The risk of nuclear war has increased dramatically in the past two years as the United States and Russia have abandoned long-standing nuclear arms control treaties, started to develop new kinds of nuclear weapons and expanded the circumstances in which they might use nuclear weapons.
This four-minute audio-visual piece is based on independent assessments of current U.S. and Russian force postures, nuclear war plans, and nuclear weapons targets. It uses extensive data sets of the nuclear weapons currently deployed, weapon yields, and possible targets for particular weapons, as well as the order of battle estimating which weapons go to which targets in which order in which phase of the war to show the evolution of the nuclear conflict from tactical, to strategic to city-targeting phases.
The resulting immediate fatalities and casualties that would occur in each phase of the conflict are determined using data from NUKEMAP. All fatality estimates are limited to acute deaths from nuclear explosions and would be significantly increased by deaths occurring from nuclear fallout and other long-term effects. The simulation was developed by Alex Wellerstein, Tamara Patton, Moritz Kütt, and Alex Glaser with assistance from Bruce Blair, Sharon Weiner, and Zia Mian. The sound is by Jeff Snyder.
Immediate Dangers
A BRIGHT FLASH when the bomb detonates. It can cause temporary blindness, so you have to protect your eyes. Closing them may not be enough; you should put your hands over them for additional protection.
The BLAST WAVE comes next. High winds and massive pressure will come rolling over everything. The closer you are to the explosion, the more intense the blast wave will be.
FIRE and HEAT are carried by the blast wave. Be prepared for burn injuries, structural damage and death.
An ELECTROMAGNETIC PULSE (EMP) disrupts communications and electronics equipment. Battery-operated radios are often still functional.
Finally, RADIOACTIVE FALLOUT will rain from the sky, sickening anyone outside that's exposed to it. The affected area can cover dozens of square miles around the impact zone. This causes cell damage and radiation sickness.
Preparation - Survival
(Information prepared by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.)
GET INSIDE
Get inside the nearest building to avoid radiation. Brick or concrete are best.
Remove contaminated clothing and wipe off or wash unprotected skin if you were outside after the fallout arrived. Hand sanitizer does not protect against fall out. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, if possible. Do not use disinfectant wipes on your skin.
Go to the basement or middle of the building. Stay away from the outer walls and roof. Try to maintain a distance of at least six feet between yourself and people who are not part of your household. If possible, wear a mask if you’re sheltering with people who are not a part of your household. Children under two years old, people who have trouble breathing, and those who are unable to remove masks on their own should not wear them.
STAY INSIDE
Stay inside for 24 hours unless local authorities provide other instructions. Continue to practice social distancing by wearing a mask and by keeping a distance of at least six feet between yourself and people who not part of your household.
Family should stay where they are inside. Reunite later to avoid exposure to dangerous radiation.
Keep your pets inside.
STAY TUNED
Tune into any media available for official information such as when it is safe to exit and where you should go.
Battery operated and hand crank radios will function after a nuclear detonation.
Cell phone, text messaging, television, and internet services may be disrupted or unavailable.
How to Survive A Nuclear Fallout - EPIC HOW TO
HOW TO STAY SAFE
Prepare NOW
Identify shelter locations. Identify the best shelter location near where you spend a lot of time, such as home, work, and school. The best locations are underground and in the middle of larger buildings.
While commuting, identify appropriate shelters to seek in the event of a detonation. Due to COVID-19, many places you may pass on the way to and from work may be closed or may not have regular operating hours.
Outdoor areas, vehicles, mobile homes do NOT provide adequate shelter. Look for basements or the center of large multistory buildings.
Make sure you have an Emergency Supply Kit for places you frequent and might have to stay for 24 hours. It should include bottled water, packaged foods, emergency medicines, a hand-crank or battery-powered radio to get information in case power is out, a flashlight, and extra batteries for essential items. If possible, store supplies for three or more days.
- If you are able to, set aside items like soap, hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol, disinfecting wipes, and general household cleaning supplies that you can use to disinfect surfaces you touch regularly. Keep in mind each person’s specific needs, including medication. Don’t forget the needs of pets. Obtain extra batteries and charging devices for phones and other critical equipment.
- Being prepared allows you to avoid unnecessary excursions and to address minor medical issues at home, alleviating the burden on urgent care centers and hospitals.
- Remember that not everyone can afford to respond by stocking up on necessities. For those who can afford it, making essential purchases and slowly building up supplies in advance will allow for longer time periods between shopping trips. This helps to protect those who are unable to procure essentials in advance of the pandemic and must shop more frequently. In addition, consider avoiding WIC-labeled products so that those who rely on these products can access them.
Survive DURING
If warned of an imminent attack, immediately get inside the nearest building and move away from windows. This will help provide protection from the blast, heat, and radiation of the detonation.
- When you have reached a safe place, try to maintain a distance of at least six feet between yourself and people who are not part of your household. If possible, wear a mask if you’re sheltering with people who are not a part of your household. Children under two years old, people who have trouble breathing, and those who are unable to remove masks on their own should not wear them.
If you are outdoors when a detonation occurs take cover from the blast behind anything that might offer protection. Lie face down to protect exposed skin from the heat and flying debris. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, if possible. If you are in a vehicle, stop safely, and duck down within the vehicle.
After the shock wave passes, get inside the nearest, best shelter location for protection from potential fallout. You will have 10 minutes or more to find an adequate shelter.
Be inside before the fallout arrives. The highest outdoor radiation levels from fallout occur immediately after the fallout arrives and then decrease with time.
Stay tuned for updated instructions from emergency response officials. If advised to evacuate, listen for information about routes, shelters, and procedures.
If you have evacuated, do not return until you are told it is safe to do so by local officials.
- Make plans to stay with friends or family in case of evacuation. Keep in mind that public shelter locations may have changed due to COVID-19. Check with local authorities to determine which public shelters are open.
- If you are told by authorities to evacuate to a public shelter, try to bring items that can help protect yourself and your family from COVID-19, such as hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol, cleaning materials, and two masks per person. Children under two years old, people who have trouble breathing, and people who cannot remove masks on their own should not wear them.
- Review the CDC’s guidelines for “Going to a Public Disaster Shelter During the COVID-19 Pandemic."
Be Safe AFTER
Immediately after you are inside shelter, if you may have been outside after the fallout arrived.
Remove your outer layer of contaminated clothing to remove fallout and radiation from your body. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, if possible.
Take a shower or wash with soap and water to remove fallout from any skin or hair that was not covered. If you cannot wash or shower, use a wipe or clean wet cloth to wipe any skin or hair that was not covered. Hand sanitizer does not protect against fall out. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, if possible. Do not use disinfectant wipes on your skin.
Clean any pets that were outside after the fallout arrived. Gently brush your pet’s coat to remove any fallout particles and wash your pet with soap and water, if available.
It is safe to eat or drink packaged food items or items that were inside a building. Do not consume food or liquids that were outdoors uncovered and may be contaminated by fallout.
If you are sick or injured, listen for instructions on how and where to get medical attention when authorities tell you it is safe to exit. If you are sick and need medical attention, contact your healthcare provider for instructions. If you are at a public shelter, immediately notify the staff at that facility so they can call a local hospital or clinic. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1 and let the operator know if you have, or think you might have, COVID-19. If you can, put on a mask before help arrives.
Engage virtually with your community through video and phone calls. Know that it’s normal to feel anxious or stressed. Take care of your body and talk to someone if you are feeling upset. Many people may already feel fear and anxiety about the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). The threat of a nuclear explosion can add additional stress. Follow CDC guidance for managing stress during a traumatic event.
Food Theory: What's SAFE To Eat After Nuclear Fallout?
SUPPLIES
To handle the short-term disruptions, from a few days to a few weeks, these are the things you'll usually need.
Water
One gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation. You can survive on as little as a quart a day, but that's the absolute minimum. Consider buying a heavy-duty filter so you can purify more water if you need to. I keep 5-gallon collapsible containers that I can fill and refill when the need arises.
Food
At least a three-day supply of non-perishable food. In areas prone to significant disruptions like earthquakes or hurricanes, you might want to consider a minimum 30-day food supply. Remember to get enough for anybody you think might be with you during the emergency. Many companies sell long-term shelf-stable foods in bulk.
Battery-powered or Hand-crank Radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with Tone Alert
Flashlight and a Solar/Hand Crank Lantern
First Aid Kit
Prescription Medications
Non-Prescription Medications
Make sure you have pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives.
Extra Batteries
Whistle
Use to signal for help.
Dust Mask
To help filter contaminated air.
Plastic Sheeting and Duct Tape
To shelter in place.
Moist Towelettes, Garbage Bags and Plastic Ties
For personal sanitation.
Wrench or Pliers
To turn off utilities.
Manual Can Opener
For food.
Local Paper Maps
Cell Phone with Chargers and a Backup Battery
Solar Battery Charger
For phone, radio and flashlights.
Additional Supplies
Masks
For everyone ages two and above.
Soap, Hand Sanitizer, Disinfecting Wipes
To disinfect surfaces.
Prescription Eyeglasses and Contact Lens Solution
Infant Formula, Bottles, Diapers, Wipes and Diaper Rash Cream
Pet Food and Extra Water
For your pet.
Cash or Traveler's Checks
Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container.
Sleeping Bag or Warm Blanket for Each Person
Complete Change of Clothing and Sturdy Shoes
Appropriate for your climate.
Fire Extinguisher
Matches in a Waterproof Container or Lighter with Fuel
Feminine Supplies and Personal Hygiene Items
Mess Kits, Paper Cups, Plates, Paper Towels and Plastic Utensils
Paper and Pencil
Books, Games, Puzzles or other Activities
Defense Items
Pepper spray, a taser, a handgun and ammunition are all things you might consider having on hand to protect yourself and your loved ones. If you have defensive items, make sure to learn how to use and maintain them before a crisis.
Barter Items
When supply chains break down, people will begin trading things instead of currency. So if you have extra alcohol, coffee, cigarettes, candy, batteries or lighters, you can use them to get things you might need.
Click Here for information on what to do from the United States government website, Ready.gov.
Click Here to download a PDF file with information on what to do from the United States government website, Ready.gov.
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This information is presented to make people aware of the larger world around them. If you can prepare for something as devastating as this, you're much more likely to be ready for smaller disruptions. Be aware and prepare.
5/17/2022
Updated 10/4/2022
