Nuclear Explosion Effects

Explore three kinds of effects and what each term means.

Conceptual diagram · blast and heat can spread outward. Wind can carry fallout in a different direction. The diagram has no distance scale.
Blast

A pressure wave can damage structures. Debris and broken glass can cause injuries.

Heat

The initial release of thermal energy can cause burns and fires.

Fallout

Radioactive particles can settle beyond the immediate blast area. Follow official instructions about sheltering.

This overview gives no location-specific estimates. In a radiation emergency, follow instructions from local authorities.

CDC guidance on sheltering during a radiation emergency