Last Updated on June 12, 2023 by Umar
The threat of nuclear war is a terrifying reality, and the question of whether one can survive a nuclear bomb underground has been a topic of interest for many.
This comprehensive blog post delves into personal stories, research, and statistics to provide a detailed analysis of the possibility of surviving a nuclear bomb underground.
Personal Stories
In 1957, five men volunteered to stand directly under an exploding nuclear bomb
. The bomb was a small 2-kiloton explosion, and the men were far enough away from the immediate radiation zone to be relatively safe.
The bomb was also small enough and high enough that it didn’t produce much fallout.
This story demonstrates that, under certain circumstances, people can survive a nuclear explosion, even without being underground.
Research and Statistics
A recent study by researchers at the University of Nicosia in Cyprus calculated how the blast from a nuclear explosion could affect people sheltering indoors
. They found that even if you’re at a safe distance from the explosion to survive the blast, you may still be in immediate peril.
The authors believe these findings could help nuclear safety experts devise better strategies to mitigate the damage from atomic explosions and radiation leaks.In the event of a nuclear attack, residents would have 30 minutes or less to shelter. Actions immediately following a blast, like showering or staying indoors, could save your life.
Survivors of a nuclear attack would have about 15 minutes before sand-like radioactive particles, known as nuclear fallout, reached the ground.The experiences of Hiroshima and Nagasaki demonstrate the devastating effects of nuclear weapons on human populations. A total of 140,000 people in Hiroshima and 73,000 in Nagasaki died instantaneously or within five months due to the nuclear blast, intense radiant heat from the fireball, and ionizing radiation.
Survival Strategies
Surviving near the epicenter of a nuclear explosion is possible only if you are in a shelter
. In the event of a nuclear threat alert, immediately go to the nearest shelter and take your emergency suitcase with you.
If you are not in an underground shelter, do not approach the windows, stay as far as possible from the outer walls and roof.Sturdy concrete buildings far enough away from the nuclear blast are your best bet for survival beyond an underground bunker. The wide-scale implication of the research conducted by the University of Nicosia is that it can add to the understanding of how to best protect yourself in the event of a nuclear detonation.
Conclusion
Surviving a nuclear bomb underground is a complex and multifaceted issue.
While personal stories and research suggest that it is possible to survive under certain circumstances, the best course of action is to be prepared and follow expert advice on how to protect yourself in the event of a nuclear detonation.
By understanding the potential dangers and taking appropriate precautions, you can increase your chances of survival in the face of a nuclear threat.
Helpful Resources
- https://www.npr.org/sections/krulwich/2012/07/16/156851175/five-men-agree-to-stand-directly-under-an-exploding-nuclear-bomb
- https://www.businessinsider.com/where-hide-during-nuclear-blast-room-corners-avoid-hallway-doors-2023-2
- https://www.businessinsider.com/guide-to-protect-yourself-nuclear-attack-before-after-bomb-2022-3
- https://allianceforscience.org/blog/2022/03/what-the-science-says-could-humans-survive-a-nuclear-war-between-nato-and-russia/
- https://visitukraine.today/blog/948/a-nuclear-explosion-how-to-prepare-to-survive-and-how-to-act-after