Tensions between the U.S. and Russia have escalated, with the threat of a nuclear strike once again a subject of serious concern. According to analysis by Newsweek, the potential impact of a Russian nuclear attack on the United States, particularly on cities like El Paso, Texas, and Phoenix, Arizona, would be catastrophic.
The article, which uses maps created by nuclear technology expert and historian Alex Wellerstein, demonstrates the devastating effects of a strike using Russia’s most powerful missile. For example, a blast in the El Paso region—which stretches into Mexico and reaches parts of New Mexico—could kill nearly 850,000 people and injure close to a million more.
In a midair explosion, the effects could be felt up to 4,000 miles away, with minor damage such as broken windows or slight structural damage. However, the immediate blast zone would experience far more horrific consequences, with large numbers of fatalities and injuries.
Some of the estimated casualties for other major U.S. cities include:
- Houston: 1,238,500 dead, 1,995,390 injured
- Dallas: 1,045,700 dead, 1,957,170 injured
- San Antonio: 761,840 dead, 754,110 injured
- Albuquerque: 417,980 dead, 359,500 injured
- Phoenix: 972,050 dead, 1,475,300 injured
Newsweek also offers an interactive map that allows users to simulate the effects of a nuclear strike on various cities. By selecting a city and adjusting the settings, users can visualize the potential destruction, based on different bomb types and detonation methods.
The potential devastation caused by a nuclear attack remains a sobering reminder of the catastrophic consequences that would follow if tensions continue to rise.