Camilla Jessen
Expert reveals 5 steps to survive a nuclear blast amid WW3 fears.
Fears of a wider global conflict have resurfaced as wars continue across several regions.
While nuclear war remains a distant scenario for many, one preparedness expert says knowing how to react could make a critical difference.
His advice focuses on immediate survival, not panic.
Growing anxiety
Concerns about World War III have grown amid conflicts in Europe, the Middle East and Asia. The threat posed by nuclear-armed states has kept worst-case scenarios in public discussion.
Modern warfare relies heavily on missiles, drones and high-yield weapons. In that context, nuclear weapons remain among the most destructive tools imaginable.
Expert guidance
Derrick, a preparedness expert known online as prepperpress on TikTok, shared five steps he says could improve survival odds during a nuclear attack.
He said his advice applies to a nuclear blast of 300 to 800 kilotons, typical of a modern intercontinental ballistic missile. By comparison, the Hiroshima bomb was about 15 kilotons, according to the World Nuclear Association.
“Hit the ground, face down, feet facing towards the blast, cover your head,” Derrick said. “Make sure to keep your mouth open so your lungs don’t burst from the pressure wave, and remember, don’t look at the flash.”
Distance matters
Derrick said survival chances drop sharply within a mile of the blast. Even several miles away, collapsing buildings pose serious risks.
Being underground offers the best protection.
“10 miles out, you are still in danger of fallout, and you have got about 10 to 30 minutes before it starts to falling into the ground as radioactive dust,” he said.
He urged people to get indoors immediately. “Get inside fast, ideally a basement, subway, fallout shelter.”
Shelter and wait
If underground shelter is unavailable, Derrick advised moving to a brick or concrete building and heading toward its center.
He stressed avoiding windows and doorways.
“Don’t go outside and try and play hero,” he warned. He said the first 24 hours are critical and recommended sheltering for up to 72 hours.
“Seal up windows, if you can; seal up doorways; cut the airflow from outside in.”
After exposure
If going outside is unavoidable, Derrick advised covering exposed skin and avoiding fallout paths.
“Cover your mouth with a mask or a cloth, wear goggles, wear gloves and wrap up anything exposed,” he said.
After returning indoors, he advised decontamination and changing clothes. He also cautioned against using conditioner when washing hair.
Derrick concluded that staying calm and being prepared with food and water remain essential.
Sources: TikTok, World Nuclear Association
