Nuclear Attack

Total Score=114


Definition

Detonation of a nuclear weapon in the air or on the ground that produces intense light, heat, blast and radiation effects causing death and serious injury and heavy destruction for miles away from the explosion. People too far away from the explosion to experience the direct weapons effects will be endangered by radioactive fallout.

Background

Despite efforts to achieve and maintain peace, a nuclear attack on the United States remains a distinct possibility.

With the advent of modern warfare, aggressors can accurately deliver these increasingly powerful and numerous nuclear warheads on targets up to 8000 miles away.

With the recent dismantling of the Soviet Union, there are now many countries in an unstable part of the world who now have nuclear capabilities.

History

The United States has never experienced the effects of a nuclear confrontation.

Time of Year

The enemy has no season- a nuclear attack can be triggered at any time.

Speed of Onset

An enemy attack on the United States would most likely be preceded by a period of international tension or crisis.

If an attack actually occurs, incoming enemy planes and missles would be detected by our network of warning stations. This warning time may be as little as 5-15 minutes in some locations or has much as an hour or more in others.

Duration of Event

The intense light, heat, blast and initial emission of nuclear radiation last but seconds. The prolonged and widespread effects of radioactive fallout will remain for days to months.

Area of Impact

Poland is at risk from direct nuclear weapons effect.

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Copyright 2002, Wayne Cotterly