Nuke Blast Simulator
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How to Use the Nuclear Blast Simulator

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. 1

    Select a Nuclear Weapon

    Choose from the database of 45+ historical and modern nuclear weapons, ranging from the 15-kiloton Little Boy (Hiroshima) to the 50-megaton Tsar Bomba (largest test ever). You can also pick "Custom Yield" to set any explosive power between 1 and 100,000 kilotons.

  2. 2

    Click on the Map

    Click anywhere on the interactive world map to set your detonation point. Pan and zoom to any location worldwide; the map covers every populated area on Earth.

  3. 3

    View Blast Effects

    Color-coded blast zones appear instantly: yellow fireball, red 20 PSI severe blast, orange 5 PSI moderate blast, gray 1 PSI light blast, magenta 3rd-degree thermal burn radius, pink 2nd-degree burn radius.

  4. 4

    Analyze Results

    Review casualty estimates and damage assessments in the results panel. Numbers are calculated from local population density and scientifically validated damage models (Glasstone & Dolan, "The Effects of Nuclear Weapons").

Understanding the Blast Zones

Fireball:Complete vaporization. Temperatures over 10 million°C. 100% fatalities.
Severe Blast (20 PSI):Reinforced concrete buildings destroyed. 50–90% fatalities.
Moderate Blast (5 PSI):Most residential buildings collapse. 5–50% fatalities.
Light Blast (1 PSI):Windows shatter, debris injuries. 0–5% fatalities.
3rd Degree Burns:Severe burns through clothing. 50–90% fatalities without immediate medical care.

Key Features

  • Real-time calculations based on weapon yield
  • Interactive map with global coverage (OpenStreetMap and Mapbox)
  • Scientifically accurate blast effect modeling
  • Population-based casualty estimates
  • Mobile-responsive design for phones, tablets, and desktops
  • Database of 45+ historical and modern nuclear weapons
  • Custom yield input for hypothetical scenarios
  • Air burst vs. surface burst toggle
  • Shareable URLs that re-create your simulation

Educational Purpose

This simulator is designed for educational purposes to help people understand the devastating humanitarian consequences of nuclear weapons. By visualizing the scale of destruction, we hope to contribute to informed discussions about nuclear disarmament and international security. See the methodology page for the scientific formulas, and the data sources page for primary references.

Frequently Asked Questions

How accurate are the nuclear blast calculations in this simulator?

Calculations are based on declassified nuclear testing data and peer-reviewed scientific studies. They are simplified for public use but provide reasonable estimates of blast effects. They should not be used for operational or emergency planning.

Why does the simulator not show full radioactive fallout patterns?

Fallout patterns depend heavily on weather, wind direction, and altitude of detonation, making accurate predictions extremely complex. The simulator shows a simplified fallout radius for reference only — real fallout plumes are elongated downwind and asymmetric.

Can I use this nuclear blast simulator for emergency planning?

No. This is an educational tool only. For real emergency planning, consult official government resources, FEMA, and emergency management agencies in your area.

See the full FAQ for more questions.

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