Understanding EMP Threats & How to Prepare
An EMP, or electromagnetic pulse, is a sudden burst of electromagnetic energy that can damage or destroy the power grid and quietly wipe out unprotected electronic devices and systems in its path. An EMP can be caused by natural phenomena, such as solar flares or geomagnetic storms, or by human-made sources, such as nuclear weapons or specialized devices. An EMP can have devastating effects on modern society, especially if it targets critical infrastructure and communication networks.
Disaster Planning
EMP Causes
A CME is a natural phenomenon caused by solar flare activity interacting with Earth's magnetic field. This can disrupt power grids, damage transformers, and cause communication blackouts. A notable example is the 1989 Quebec blackout, where a geomagnetic storm caused by a CME left millions without power.
A man-made nuclear detonation at high altitude can cause widespread severe damage to the power grid. Though nuclear EMP does not produce radioactive fallout on the ground in high-altitude bursts, its ability to impact critical infrastructure and technology across vast regions makes it a significant threat.
EMP Factors
The pulse expands in a roughly circular pattern from the point of detonation so, at higher altitude, a detonation can have a line of sight to a larger portion of the earth’s surface, thereby affecting a larger area.
The intensity of the EMP (how strong the pulse is) at a specific location on the ground also depends on the yield of the explosion (how big the explosion is) and the design of the weapon.
Disaster Planning
If a high-altitude nuclear EMP occurs, there would likely not be an immediate public alert issued, whereas significant solar events may be predicted or tracked by space-weather agencies, giving you a heads up on the possibility of a potential solar storm strike. If you are left to figure it out on your own, recognizing the immediate signs can help you evaluate what’s happening so you can swing into action (see plan of action below).
Immediate Signs of an EMP
- Sudden power outages across affected areas.
- Electronic devices stop functioning, including phones, laptops, and other wireless devices.
- Disruption of communication networks and broadcasting stations (e.g., radio and TV signals cease).
- Cars with microchips and integrated circuits may experience malfunctions or fail to start.
- Failure of electrical infrastructure, like lighting systems or traffic signals.
- Airplanes and helicopters could experience disruptions to their electronic systems, leading to potential risks during flights.
Risks & Challenges to EMP Recovery
- Prolonged power outages affecting daily life and economic activities.
- Disruption of critical infrastructure, including water supply, healthcare, and transportation systems.
- Damage to or destruction of unshielded electronic devices and systems, hindering recovery efforts.
- Reduced communication capabilities, isolating individuals and organizations from timely information and coordination.
- Food and water scarcity due to impacts on supply chains and refrigeration systems.
- Increased societal vulnerability to health crises and crime due to lack of resources and services.
- Challenges in restoring the power grid and damaged infrastructure, potentially taking weeks, months, or longer.
Disaster Planning
Supplies on Hand
The best way to prepare for an EMP is by having enough supplies to see your through what could be a substantial amount of time without electricity. Check out prepare your home for ideas on ways to shore up your home supply. Here are some of the supplies covered:
Home supplies
Family Plans
Having family plans allows you to be ready for potential grid-down scenarios ahead of time.
family communications - provides a backup plan if your family is separated when the electricity goes out.
home security - allows you to protect your home during what could be a very dangerous time.
away from home - helps to deal with emergencies at places you frequent.
cash on hand - gives you the cash you need when ATMs don't work, and stores can only accept cash.
get back home - this is really a kit, but it gives you what you need to get home on foot if your car won't work.
The Faraday Cage
A Faraday cage is a hollow conductive enclosure that shields its contents from any incoming electromagnetic fields because the charge remains solely on its external surface.
Protection comes in the form of either a cage or bag. They come in different sizes and materials and are both effective at blocking electromagnetic fields.
Faraday cage - is either a solid or mesh structure of rigid conductive material that can be portable or stationary.
Faraday bag - is a flexible, portable bag made of conductive textiles that is meant mostly for the protection of portable electronic equipment. Some are bigger and can house larger objects.
Items to protect
The goal is to protect items and equipment that are essential to survival and communications. Here are some suggestions.
- portable generator *
- communication devices
- external hard drive
- medical equipment
- other backup devices
- electronics
- extra batteries
* One of the greatest threats to a generator with electronic components is a man-made EMP. Does your small generator have any electronic components? If so, store it in a Faraday cage or bag. Otherwise, it may become useless after an EMP.
Tip: Spend a weekend without electricity and see how well-prepared you are. Use the experience to help you better prepare not only with supplies you may have overlooked, but mentally and emotionally as well.
Disaster Planning
Act Quickly
While everyone else is wondering what the heck is happening, you will be three steps ahead because you have taken the time to learn the signs of an EMP. Once you realize what’s happening, here are three things to do.
Unplug all devices & appliances
- Turn off all electronic devices and appliances and unplug all cords and wires from outlets and devices.
- The damage may already be done, but if not, this may prevent further damage from any subsequent surge of energy.
- It’s generally a good idea to keep devices unplugged until you’re sure that the risk has passed.
Gather water
The water pressure could weaken rapidly and eventually stop flowing. Gather water quickly before this happens.
- Fill every sink, glass, pot, container, and foldable plastic storage container such as a WaterBob in your home with faucet water (store one for each bathtub).
- In many apartments and multi-story buildings, the water supply may fail quickly if pumps lose power. Have your water supply ready to go.
Spend your cash
- Make a run to the store for more supplies - don't wait.
- Stores that can’t take debit due to lack of electricity will probably take cash until they sell out of merchandise.
- Use it to buy shelf-stable supplies.
- Get in and get out - it will soon become chaotic as more and more people realize the situation.
So Now What?
Things will become chaotic very quickly outside your front door, but things will also change dramatically in your home. Don't worry, you have prepared. However, there are some things you can do and also avoid that will help your family better deal with a long-term power outage.
- Use food in your refrigerator first then your freezer. When that has been used, begin using and rationing your shelf-stable food.
- Get your alternate forms of fuel and devices out of storage and prepare mentally for the shift.
- Stay inside and keep your doors and windows locked.
Things to do
- Use your generator but do not light up your house, even if you can. This will only attract attention.
- Don't grill outside. The smell of food will attract attention and can put you in a dangerous position.
- Stay away from busy streets and crowds to avoid any chaos.