What You Should Do In The First 10 Minutes If A Nuclear Bomb Hits The US Amid Rising WW3 Fears

As more people start to worry about the possibility of World War 3, experts are stepping up to explain what to do in the critical first 10 minutes if such a nightmare ever becomes real.

There’s a growing concern specifically about nuclear weapons. That fear recently led the US to carry out targeted air strikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities, aiming to damage the country’s capabilities.

Even Senator JD Vance has spoken openly about how real the fear of nuclear war feels. He once shared a moment where he genuinely thought former President Donald Trump had launched a nuclear attack.

Vance recalled being on a call with a foreign leader when President Trump muted the line and told him the conversation "isn't going very well."

Then, Trump pressed a red button in front of him, which instantly raised alarm bells for Vance. He asked in shock what had just happened.

"Nuclear" was Trump’s reply. As it turns out, the button wasn’t linked to any missile launch. Instead, it was his now-famous Diet Coke button and moments later, someone walked in carrying his drink.

People are concerned about a possible nuclear war Getty Stock Image

Although that moment was humorous in hindsight, nuclear war remains a serious and pressing concern. That’s why experts are urging people to understand what actions to take immediately after a strike.

According to guidance from the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP), there are some crucial steps you should take within the first 10 minutes after a detonation.

"A nuclear detonation, whether from a missile or small portable device, may result in mass casualties." the ICRP states on its official site.

"Adequate preparation and appropriate response to a nuclear alert or detonation can protect you and your family's health and life. The best way to protect you and your family before, during, and after a nuclear blast is getting inside the centre of a building or basement."

"On August 6, 1945, Mr Eizo Nomura was in the basement of a building in Hiroshima, about 170 meters from ground zero. He survived the atomic bombing and died in 1982 at the age of 84. Most people within a few hundred metres of a nuclear detonation are not likely to survive, especially if unprepared."

The ICRP further recommends the following: "After a detonation, you will have 10 minutes or more to find an adequate shelter before fallout arrives. If a multi-story building or a basement can be safely reached within a few minutes of the explosion, go there immediately. The safest buildings have brick or concrete walls. Underground parking garages and subways can also provide good shelter."

The chances of you surviving a unclear blast is increased in to be into a brick or concrete building Getty Stock Image

When we talk about nuclear 'fallout', we’re referring to the radioactive dust and particles that settle back to the ground after a nuclear explosion. This material can be incredibly dangerous long after the blast ends.

The aftermath can be just as deadly as the initial explosion. Exposure to fallout can lead to serious health issues such as radiation sickness, increased cancer risks, and even death in severe cases.