In the unlikely event of a terrorist nuclear blast, most casualties would be caused by radiation, especially the radioactive cloud carried by winds into surrounding areas. This map adapted from a White House Homeland Security Council report - which depicts an attack on Washington - shows a hypothetical radiation plume from a 10-kiloton weapon. The plume's direction is based on prevailing winds. Other wind conditions would provide different results. The statistics are based on a scenario in which little evacuation was possible.
SOURCE: Homeland Security Council | THE WASHINGTON POST
U.S. Called Unprepared For Nuclear Terrorism Government has failed to adequately prepare first responders and the public for a nuclear strike, according to experts and federal reports.
