The Alarming Possibility of an EMP Attack on America's Power Grid
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Chapter 1: The Foundation of Our Electric Dependency
The groundbreaking experiments of Benjamin Franklin in 1752, particularly his kite-flying tests with lightning, laid the groundwork for our understanding of electricity. If we consider this moment as the start, then the United States has been an electrical society for over 272 years.
For nearly two centuries, electricity was not a central part of daily life as it is now. In fact, as recently as the 1950s and 60s, millions of Americans lived without it. However, our society has shifted dramatically, becoming heavily reliant on electricity. This power source operates our water treatment facilities, oil refineries, and provides light and heat for our homes. It also fuels our computers, TVs, and gaming consoles.
Imagine a world where electricity suddenly vanishes. Activities at home would come to a standstill in the dark and cold, or in oppressive heat, since air conditioning is also dependent on electrical power.
Most of us have encountered brief power outages, typically resolved within a few hours. However, what happens when those hours stretch into days?
Some may argue that they have experienced extended outages after severe storms or hurricanes, which is a different scenario altogether. After such events, communities often come together, helping one another clear debris and prepare food. However, if an electromagnetic pulse (EMP) or a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) were to strike, that communal support would likely be absent.
The first video highlights the devastating implications of an EMP attack on the U.S. infrastructure, detailing the potential aftermath of such an event.
Section 1.1: A Close Call with Nature's Fury
In July 2012, we narrowly avoided a catastrophic CME that could have severely damaged our electrical grid. This solar storm was so potent that, according to Daniel Baker from the University of Colorado, if it had struck, we would still be recovering from its effects today.
The U.S. government, in a bid to prevent public panic, chose to keep this close call under wraps. Luckily, the solar storm that erupted on July 23, 2012, missed Earth by approximately five days. Had it arrived sooner, we might have faced dire consequences.
Analysts suggest that a direct hit from a significant CME, like the one that narrowly missed us, could lead to extensive power outages, rendering most electronic devices inoperable. People might struggle to access even basic necessities, as urban water supplies often rely on electric pumps.
Before this incident, discussions around solar storms predominantly revolved around the Carrington Event of 1859. Named after the English astronomer Richard Carrington, who observed it firsthand, this event unleashed a series of powerful CMEs that caused widespread disruptions, including sparking fires in telegraph offices.
According to Baker, the 2012 solar storm was comparable in strength to the Carrington Event, but, fortunately, it missed us.
The second video delves into the scientific principles behind electromagnetic pulses and their potential implications for modern society.
Section 1.2: Imagining the Fallout
If a powerful CME were to hit today, the consequences would be catastrophic. The electrical grid would be instantly incapacitated, and although the event would be silent and invisible, its effects would be unmistakable—nothing with a plug would function, including cell phones and tablets.
Any unprotected electronic devices would be rendered useless. While individuals might find refuge in a Faraday Cage to shield some items, the average American could find themselves without electricity for an extended period.
Regarding vehicles, opinions vary. Since the last significant event predated the invention of automobiles, predicting the impact on modern cars is challenging. Experts generally agree that vehicles manufactured before 1975 may remain operational, but those built after are likely to malfunction.
In a worst-case scenario, if you find yourself on the freeway during an EMP event...
You wouldn't want to be stuck in traffic. In such a scenario, gather whatever supplies you have and begin walking to safety—whether to your home or a friend's. Time is of the essence, as panic will likely ensue once people realize their cars and communication devices are inoperative.
Don't engage with others; focus on getting home. Prepare yourself for potential threats by securing personal protection, whether it's a firearm or another means of self-defense.
To be continued...
If you found this discussion engaging, please respond with your thoughts, critiques, or suggestions, and I will reciprocate.
In Part 2, we'll explore the potential for weaponizing devices that could trigger an EMP attack and examine which nation-states might have the capability to execute such an act.
Until then,
Scott