A nuclear explosion is a catastrophic event where there are no safe zones. While those nearby face immediate evaporation, the spread of radiation poses a dangerous threat even far away. A blast wave from an explosion is another danger, as the speed of the air can lift people up and cause serious damage.

Researchers from the University of Nicosia simulated the explosion of an intercontinental ballistic missile nuclear bomb and the resulting blast wave to assess its impact on people seeking shelter indoors. Results published Fluid Physics by AIP Publishing.

In the moderately damaged area, the blast wave is enough to destroy some buildings and injure people on the street. But stronger structures such as concrete structures can survive.

The team used cutting-edge computer simulations to investigate how a nuclear blast wave propagates through a standing structure. It included simulated structures, rooms, windows, doors, and corridors, allowing them to calculate the air velocity following the blast wave and identify the best and worst places.

“Before our study, the danger to people inside a concrete building that withstands a blast wave was unclear,” said lead author Dimitris Drikakis. “Our research shows that high flight speeds remain a significant hazard and can lead to serious injury or even death.”

According to their conclusions, simply being in a solid building is not enough to avoid risk. Confined spaces can increase airspeed, and the inclusion of a blast wave will cause air to bounce off walls and bend in corners. In the worst case, it can generate a force equivalent to 18 times a person’s body weight.

“The most dangerous critical places to avoid indoors are windows, corridors and doors,” said author Ioannis Kokkinakis. “People should stay as far away from these places as possible and seek shelter as soon as possible. Even in the front room facing the explosion, you can avoid high speeds if you stay close to the corners of the wall facing the explosion.”

The authors emphasize that the time between the explosion and the arrival of the blast wave is only a few seconds, so getting to a safe location quickly is critical.

“There will also be increased radiation levels, unsafe buildings, damaged power and gas lines, and fires,” Drikakis said. said. “People should be concerned about all of the above and seek emergency care immediately.”

Although the authors hope their advice will never be needed, they believe that understanding the consequences of a nuclear explosion can guide injury prevention and recovery efforts. Source