The Seeker’s Guide: Will a Subway Be a Safe Place in a Nuclear Attack?

When the unthinkable occurs and a nuclear attack is imminent, the question of safety becomes paramount. This guide delves into whether subways can provide a safe haven, examining several factors that might influence the outcome.

Risk Factors and Survival Probabilities

The safety of a subway during a nuclear attack depends significantly on the location of the tunnels, the type of weapon, and its explosive yield. Depending on where the attack takes place and the size of the weapon detonated, some subways may offer substantial shelter, while others could lead to catastrophic outcomes.

Airbursts, the most probable scenario, would significantly affect the subway's safety. The primary issues include the structural integrity of the tunnels, the proximity of buildings, and the radiation levels following the attack.

Structural Intactness and Immediate Hazards

Many subways, such as the New York subway system, run just below the roadways, offering limited protection. In contrast, deep-level stations like the Forest Glen Metro Station in DC offer extensive protection due to their depth. The depth of a subway can be a critical factor in surviving a surface detonation, as it can provide more shielding from the initial blast and radioactive fallout.

Immediate Consequences of an Airburst

The first and most immediate issue is the intense thermal radiation and light flash, which can blind and vaporize objects. The human body is not prepared for such extreme heat, and the flash travels at the speed of light, making it nearly impossible to escape without blinders or protective gear.

Consequently, the concussion wave can cause significant damage to structures and people. Objects propelled at high velocities towards solid structures can lead to impalement and fatal injuries. Radius varies depending on the weapon's size and the altitude of detonation, which can extend up to 10 miles.

Long-term Radiation Risks

Following the immediate blast, severe radiation exposure poses the most critical threat. Radiation levels diminish over time, with the CDC stating that a survivor should avoid exposure for approximately two weeks. During this period, the remnants of radioactive materials decay, and the air and ground become safer.

However, the presence of fallout—radioactive dust kicked up by the blast—can contaminate the environment, making food, water, and even breathable air hazardous.

Human Factors and Collective Survival

Being trapped in a subway with hundreds of others can lead to severe psychological and physiological stress. The lack of food, light, water, and fresh air can exacerbate the situation. Adding to the peril is the need to wait at least two weeks for radiation levels to decrease to tolerable levels.

The grim realities of survival include the psychological impact of waiting in darkness, the potential loss of companions, and the risk of immediate death or severe radiation sickness. Strategies must be developed for obtaining water and food, dealing with stress, and maintaining mental fortitude.

Alternative Locations

The safest place to be during a nuclear attack is far away. However, with the threat of incoming missiles, evacuation to a safe distance is impractical for most city dwellers. Bunkers and secure underground structures, such as the North Korean deep subways, offer structured protection and a higher chance of survival.

Subways, while providing temporary shelter, present significant challenges. They can offer some protection against immediate blast effects and certain levels of radiation, but the long-term lack of resources and the psychological impact can be overwhelming.

In conclusion, while subways can provide a temporary refuge in a nuclear attack, their safety and effectiveness depend on their depth, structural integrity, and proximity to the blast site. The key considerations are radiation protection and managing the aftermath. Survivors must plan for prolonged survival in these conditions, focusing on resources, psychological support, and physical health.

Key Points:

The risk levels and safety of subways in a nuclear event depend heavily on the location, depth, and type of weapon. Structural integrity and radiation exposure are critical factors in determining survivability. Provisions for food, water, and psychological support are essential for long-term survival.

For those who find themselves in a subway during a nuclear attack, staying informed, prepared, and resilient can significantly increase the chances of survival.