Many people sincerely hope that the terrifying possibility of nuclear war stays limited to fiction. However, the possibility of a nuclear strike looms with unnerving reality given the ongoing crises throughout the world and the growing tensions between the US and Russia. In this piece, we explore the US cities that might be the targets of such a disaster, highlighting Milwaukee, Wisconsin, as an unlikely candidate.
The Six Cities Most at Risk
Six US cities are top candidates for a nuclear attack, according to Columbia University disaster preparedness specialist Irwin Redlener:
- New York City is the heart of the world’s finance and culture, with unmatched power.
- Chicago: the third-largest city in the country, important for trade, business, and transportation.
- Houston: the fourth-largest, NASA’s home, and a major player in the oil and gas industry.
- Los Angeles is a major hub for media and entertainment, second only to New York in terms of size.
- San Francisco: Despite being the fifth largest, it is a center for technology and innovation.
- The capital of the country, Washington, D.C., is essential to both defense and administration.
These cities are prime targets for any enemy looking to cause the most destruction and disruption because they are home to vital infrastructure and resources that are essential to the country’s operation, such as government buildings, energy facilities, financial hubs, military outposts, and communication networks.
Milwaukee: Why?
Milwaukee, the largest city in Wisconsin and the thirty-first largest in the US, merits examination even though it may not be the first place that comes to mind as a nuclear target. Milwaukee is included because of a number of things. First of all, it is home to a nuclear power station, which poses a serious concern because of the possibility of meltdowns and radiation leakage. Second, it is an important hub for manufacturing and transportation in the Midwest due to its status as a major port city on Lake Michigan. Its large population—more than 600,000—as well as the metropolitan area, which is home to more than 1.5 million people, increase its strategic significance.
But Milwaukee isn’t Wisconsin’s only competitor. lower communities on the shoreline of Lake Michigan, Point Beach and Kewaunee, both have nuclear power facilities, albeit with lower populations. However, they continue to be feasible targets due to similar strategic factors.
How to Be Ready and Stay Alive
When it comes to improving their chances of surviving a nuclear confrontation, people should take the following proactive measures:
- Stay Informed: Pay attention to warning indicators, such as sirens, alerts, or official messages, and follow any instructions given by authorities.
- Seek Shelter: To reduce radiation exposure in the case of an impending assault, give first priority to seeking safety in strong, secure buildings, ideally underground or in basements.
- Use Caution: After an attack, wait for the authorities to declare it safe to go outside or try to evacuate. Remain vigilant and rely on radios or other means of contact to get instructions and updates.
- Create a Strategy: Together with your loved ones, create emergency plans that include meeting locations, means of contact, and necessary supplies. Have a complete emergency supply kit that includes water, nonperishable food, radios, flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, and medications that are kept in convenient places.
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In summary
Even while nuclear war is still a terrifying possibility, some US cities have been designated as primary targets, so it cannot be completely ruled out. Among these possible targets is Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with its nuclear facilities and strategic importance. People should educate themselves with emergency protocols and equip themselves appropriately. Being vigilant and prepared are crucial. Although it is still hoped that these measures won’t have to be taken, caution demands that one be ready for any eventuality because it is better to be safe than sorry.
