Educational preparedness model only. This simplified estimator gives broad risk categories and should never be used for operational, engineering, or tactical decisions.
What this calculator does
This nuclear blast calculator is a simplified, public-information learning tool. It combines estimated yield, distance, burst type, and shelter quality to produce a broad impact score and practical preparedness guidance.
Instead of presenting precision damage rings, the model intentionally reports category-level risk so readers can understand relative danger and protective actions. In short: it is for awareness, not exact prediction.
How the model works (in plain language)
1) Yield and distance are scaled together
The first calculation converts your inputs into a normalized distance measure. This lets small and large events be compared on the same scale.
2) Multiple effects are blended
The calculator estimates a blended impact from three broad effect families:
- Blast pressure (structural and physical shock effects)
- Thermal exposure (heat and flash-related harm)
- Prompt radiation (near-field radiation effects)
3) Environment and shelter modify risk
Air burst and surface burst characteristics differ, and being outdoors vs. in a basement can drastically change outcomes. The tool reflects this with adjustment factors and then maps your score to a risk band.
How to interpret the result
- Extreme/Catastrophic: Immediate life-threatening conditions likely.
- Severe: Serious injuries and major infrastructure impact are possible.
- High: Significant damage and hazardous exposure potential.
- Moderate: Mixed effects; protection measures still matter.
- Low: Reduced direct effects, but follow official guidance.
A lower score is not “safe.” Secondary hazards (debris, fires, fallout, panic traffic, contamination pathways) can still create severe risk.
Immediate protective actions
If you see a flash
- Do not look at it directly.
- Drop behind cover immediately.
- Protect your head and exposed skin.
After the shock wave
- Move inside the nearest substantial building.
- Go to the center or basement level if available.
- Remove outer clothing and bag it if contamination is suspected.
- Follow official emergency broadcast instructions.
Limitations and ethical use
Real-world consequences depend on topography, weather, urban density, burst altitude, building quality, line-of-sight, and many other variables this page does not model. This tool is intentionally coarse and conservative.
Use it to support public safety education, emergency planning discussions, and risk literacy. Do not use it to guide harm, targeting, or destructive activity.