Many people want to avoid the terrifying threat of nuclear war. However, the possibility of a nuclear exchange seems unnervingly plausible given the rising hostilities between the US and Russia and other nuclear-armed countries. Which US cities would probably be targeted in such a conflict, and how does Pennsylvania fit into this?
Probable Objectives
Potential targets for a nuclear assault include the following, according to sources like Columbia University, the National Resources Defense Council, and FEMA:
- The biggest American metropolis and a center of finance and culture worldwide is New York, NY.
- The nation’s political and military hub is located in Washington, DC.
- Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas: A significant center of commerce and transportation.
- Jacksonville, Florida: An important marine and naval hub.
- Miami, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Chicago, Houston, and Phoenix are among the other cities that are in danger.
The Risk in Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, the sixth-largest US city, and its importance in the military, economy, and industry make it a high-risk target among Pennsylvania’s cities. Philadelphia might be deliberately attacked to compromise US military capabilities and infrastructure since it is the location of the Philadelphia Naval Shipyard, Philadelphia International Airport, and the Limerick Generating Station.
Keep a safe distance
The usual rule of thumb for surviving a nuclear explosion is to stay at least 10 miles away from the explosion site. This does not, however, provide protection against long-term consequences like pollution and fallout. Seeking refuge for a minimum of 24 hours in a strong structure, ideally subterranean or in a basement, is advised.
Safest Locations
Certain locations might be fewer likely targets or more shielded from fallout from a nuclear war, even if no site can guarantee safety from one. Among them are:
- North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, and Wyoming are in the upper Midwest.
- Maine: Geographically remote and thinly populated.
- West Texas has a desert terrain, few large cities, and is remote from other states.
- Rural Pockets: Vermont, Idaho, Oregon, and Northern California; these areas may be protected by natural barriers.
- It’s important to remember that these measures aren’t infallible and that the best line of defense is to avoid nuclear war by means of disarmament, diplomacy, and peace.
In Summary
A nuclear war could wipe out millions of people, making it a terrible threat. In Pennsylvania, Philadelphia has been classified as a high-risk target. Although a 10-mile safe distance is advised, no location is 100% secure. The ultimate objective should be to avoid nuclear war by disarmament and diplomatic measures.
