With global tensions rising, from US strikes on Iran to Russia’s war in Ukraine, a nuclear historian has named 15 US cities most likely to be targeted in a World War 3 scenario. Professor Alex Wellerstein’s list, shared with the Daily Mail, includes surprising small towns and major hubs, offering a sobering look at what could happen if nuclear conflict erupts.
Wellerstein, from Stevens Institute of Technology, said Russia would likely aim for military sites to stop US retaliation, while rogue actors might hit symbolic or populated areas. Great Falls, Montana, with only 60,422 residents, is near Malmstrom Air Force Base, which controls nuclear missile silos. Cheyenne, Wyoming (65,168 residents), is home to Francis E. Warren Air Force Base, a key nuclear operations center, making it a potential target.
Ogden and Clearfield, Utah, with 121,737 residents combined, are close to Hill Air Force Base, a nuclear weapons hub. Shreveport, Louisiana (177,959 residents), hosts B-52 bombers capable of nuclear strikes. Honolulu, Hawaii (341,778 residents), is at risk due to its naval and air bases, a reminder of Pearl Harbor’s history. Omaha, Nebraska (483,335 residents), near Offutt Air Force Base, and Colorado Springs, Colorado (488,664 residents), home to NORAD, are also on the list for their military roles.
Albuquerque, New Mexico (560,274 residents), houses Kirtland Air Force Base’s nuclear arsenal. Washington, D.C. (678,972 residents), as the seat of government, is a clear target. Seattle, Washington (737,015 residents), near Naval Base Kitsap, faces added danger from its limited evacuation routes. Big cities like San Francisco (873,965 residents), Houston (2.3 million), Chicago (2.6 million), Los Angeles (3.8 million), and New York City (8.8 million) are at risk for their economic and cultural significance.
As Trump’s actions, like bombing Iran’s nuclear sites and trade disputes with China, stir global unrest, Wellerstein’s list is a wake-up call. It urges preparedness and awareness, highlighting the devastating impact a nuclear strike could have on these cities and the need to push for peace (Daily Mail).