Approximate Prompt and Delayed Fallout Effects from a 10 kT Detonation - Illustration

Source of graphic: Key Response Planning Factors for the Aftermath of Nuclear Terrorism (PDF - 4.52 MB) (Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, August 2009, Page 3, Figure 2); Note: document contains other plume illustrations as well. Graphic display shows hypothetical, computer-modeled zones of damage, injury, and radiation levels after 10kT ground burst of an improvised nuclear device Linear scale of miles on both the x and y-axis Zones are approximate and would likely change over time during an event Irregular darker blue areas on the right half of the diagram reflect areas of potential radioactive fallout Note that weather and wind affect where fallout goes over time Upper winds carry fallout in one direction. Winds nearer to the earth's surface carry fallout in another direction This difference is frequently seen, even with normal weather patterns Both upper and lower winds can change direction normally, and during an event