The detonation of a nuclear weapon at high altitude or in space (~ 30 km or more above the earth’s surface) can generate an intense electromagnetic pulse (EMP) referred to as a high-altitude EMP or HEMP. HEMP can propagate to the earth and impact various land-based technological systems such as the electric power grid. Because of the extreme differences in views among experts regarding the potential impacts of HEMP on the electric power grid and the potential societal implications, the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) launched a three-year research project in April 2016 to investigate the potential impacts of a HEMP attack on the electric transmission system and to identify possible options for mitigating impacts.
The video below is a summary of the EPRI study on the impacts that a high-altitude nuclear electromagnetic pulse (HEMP) would have on the power grid.
While it uses some technical talk and words at parts, even if you don't understand exactly what he says, you should be able to understand the end result.
Avery Lambert:
As an avid sailor and prepper, I found this article particularly informative. I've always been fascinated by EMPs, understanding their potential impact on technological systems and how they might alter our everyday lives in an instant. The notion of a high-altitude nuclear EMP, or HEMP, is indeed a sobering one, especially considering its potential to disrupt our power grid.
My perspective on this is shaped by two intertwining aspects of my life - my passion for sailing and my commitment to preparedness. In my decade-long journey as a prepper, I've learned that resilience often comes from understanding potential threats and planning accordingly. This is where articles like this one come in handy, offering insights into the possible impacts of a HEMP attack and providing valuable resources like the EPRI report and the YouTube playlist.
From a boater's perspective, I can't help but think about how a HEMP attack would affect my 35-foot sloop rigged vessel. While my boat is equipped with solar panels and a desalination system, the threat of an EMP affecting these systems is a concern. However, being on water, away from the immediate blast radius, might offer some advantages.
I would like to suggest that a follow-up article explores the effects of a HEMP on marine vessels and maritime systems. As we know, many preppers plan to take to the sea in the event of a crisis, so understanding the specifics of how EMPs might impact such plans could be crucial for our community.
Lastly, I appreciate the technical details in the video. While not everyone may grasp the intricacies, it's important we strive to understand. After all, knowledge is power, and in a world with potential threats like HEMP, we need all the power we can muster.
Thank you for this informative piece. Looking forward to more such enlightening articles.
