NILU, Norwegian Institute for Air Research, had been providing regular updated maps using their unique methodology to forecast various types of radiation emitting from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant in Japan as it enters the atmosphere and travels around the globe. The public updates have apparently ceased. The following message is displayed on some of their pages that I’ve browsed from older links… Our apologies… The item you requested does not exist on this server or cannot be served. About NILU: NILU 181 scientists, engineers and technicians carry out projects for the Research Council, for industry, both in Norway and offshore, and for local and state governments at home and abroad. NILU also takes an active part in EU research programs. NILU is among the leading research groups in the world in parts of their field. Explanation regarding their modeling: Weather conditions play an important role in the spread of air pollution. The path the pollution takes is determined by wind direction. The dilution depends on the wind strength and luftmassens mixing process. These factors in turn influenced by the topography which channels the wind, which affects the dilution in the atmosphere. Vertical exchanges are affected by radiation conditions, and the outer wind. The development of numerical weather prediction models combined with measurements at the ground has led to better procedures for the preparation of the wind field. Wind fields are important input to diffusion models. The combination of meteorological models and dispersion models have provided opportunities to establish notification procedures for the dissemination of air pollution in urban and regional scale. Regarding the accuracy or validity of the NILU models that they have published of I-131, Cs-137 and others, I cannot say. It would be curious to hear Arnie Gundersen’s opinion on this. In any event, a few blogs out there have uncovered a file folder location at the NILU site which still contains apparent updates, however they are not published publicly. I do not see a copyright notice. That, combined with their previous free distribution of their charts, I have chosen to post their latest available charts while knowing that many Readers here are interested in this subject. NILU Radiation Map of North America, I-131 13-May-2011 NILU Radiation Map of North America, Cs-137 13-May-2011 If you enjoyed this, or topics of preparedness or current events risk awareness, consider our survival blog RSS feed, new posts by E-mail, or bookmark us at Modern Survival Blog Modern Survival Blog related posts Radiation and the UV Index Radon Gas Radiation in America
Posts Tagged ‘Japan’
Secret NILU Radiation Charts, North America
Posted in Disasters 
Tags: arnie-gundersen, Charts, current events, fukushima, Japan, nilu, North, north-america, norway, Radiation, Research, Survival, Weather, Wind 
Comments OffHAARP Fluxgate Magnetometer, Earthquake Prediction?
Looking at the HAARP Fluxgate Magnetometer charts from just before the magnitude 9.0 earthquake of Japan up until today, reveals some interesting results while comparing the earth’s magnetic field with earthquakes that occurred during that time frame. The fluxgate magnetometer was built by the University of Alaska, Geophysical Institute, and is operating at the HAARP ionospheric observatory in Gakona, Alaska. The three traces represent components of the earth’s magnetic field as follows: The “H” component (black trace) is positive magnetic northward The “D” component (red trace) is positive eastward The “Z” component (blue trace) is positive downward Geomagnetic storminess is usually indicated in oscillatory variations in the earth’s magnetic field. Since earthquakes result from tectonic plate movement, and tectonic plates are adrift atop a slurry of hot magma, all of which jostle about on top of the earth’s iron core – the interaction of which creates a dynamo effect generating the earth’s magnetic field… one wonders if sudden changes or ‘storminess’ in this magnetic field could possibly correlate up to the surface in the form of earthquakes. It may be a stretch, but in one sense it seems somewhat logical. Looking at the first chart, we see two distinct periods of active magnetic change. Within this grouping we can see several magnitude 6+ earthquakes followed by the big one in Japan, a magnitude 9.0. (Earthquakes listed in the charts are the USGS categorized ‘significant’ quakes from their earthquake listings) The second chart reveals a period of active magnetic change followed by several magnitude 6+ quakes including a 7.1 Aftershock of the Japan earthquake. The third chart brings us up until today, May 2, and as you can see there is significant active magnetism occurring that began on April 30. This activity is on par with the other ‘significant’ periods, and if there is any correlation, then one might expect a large earthquake within the next week or so, or perhaps several magnitude 6+ quakes. As you can also see, there are a few earthquakes that have not occurred near these magnetic anomalies, which may disprove this notion altogether. However, let’s wait and see (we have no choice). If you enjoyed this, or topics of preparedness or current events risk awareness, consider our survival blog RSS feed, new posts by E-mail, or bookmark us at Modern Survival Blog Modern Survival Blog related posts
Posted in Disasters Tags: active-magnetic, change-followed, current events, Earth, Earthquake, Earthquakes, HAARP, interaction, Japan, magnetic-field, Survival, University. Comments OffNevada Earthquake Swarm, Precursor?
Hundreds upon hundreds of earthquakes have suddenly rumbled beneath an area 6 miles to the southwest of Hawthorne, Nevada, just during the past few days. Seismologists are expressing concern of this sudden activity partially because it is occurring on a previously unknown fault – similar to what happened not long ago in New Zealand, Chile, Haiti, Baha, and Japan. There is further concern due to the fairly large magnitude of many quakes, lots being in the 4 range while the largest has been a 4.6 so far in this swarm event. Nevada Seismologists apparently have no way of knowing if this will lead to a big quake. Given the volcanic activity in the region during the past 10,000 years, seismologists are looking for tell-tale signs (tremor). A new volcano on the border of Nevada / California would be an interesting situation indeed. They say though that this activity may be tectonic, but they are checking all scenarios. Having a look at the entire list of earthquakes at the Nevada Seismological Laboratory, most of the depths are approximately in the 3 – 10km range, more or less. The USGS list indicates depths closer to 15km while the USGS list itself has recorded only a fraction of the total number of earthquakes reported at the University of Nevada site. The location is curiously close to a dormant Super Volcano, Long Valley – California, just 45 miles away. In fact there is a string of volcanoes there, Mono Lake volcanic field – Mono Craters, Long Valley, Inyo Craters, and Mammoth Mountain. The region has a rich history of volcanic activity including planet wide consequences such as when Long Valley covered most of the western United States in thick ash. In either case, be it volcanic or tectonic activity in western Nevada, people need to be prepared and aware of what is happening around them. Even the local seismologists are saying to have a supply of food and water at the ready, as earthquakes can happen just about anywhere. We have witnessed a tremendous number of powerful and very deadly earthquakes during just the past few years. The last one near Japan was of such great magnitude and significance that it reminds us of the fact that we’re living on top of a thin crust that can snap at any moment – and where just a few miles down much of it is molten. Unimaginable stresses are built up all over the various tectonic plates which are essentially floating and jostling around above a semi fluid sea of hot thick molten rock. If you enjoyed this, or topics of preparedness or current events risk awareness, consider our survival blog RSS feed, new posts by E-mail, or bookmark us at Modern Survival Blog Modern Survival Blog related posts Arkansas Earthquakes cause Drilling Moratorium Magnitude 4.7 Earthquake in Arkansas?! Arkansas Earthquake Swarms, New Madrid or Natural Gas? 2010 Earthquake Summary Gulf of Aden, What Happened in November? Incoming search terms: earthquake
Posted in Disasters Tags: California, current events, during-the-past, Earthquake, earthquake-swarm, Earthquakes, Haiti, Japan, plugin, Search, Survival, tagging, united-states, University. Comments OffDog Compassion and Loyalty after Tsunami
More than 10 million viewers have already seen this incredible video of a compassionate and protective pet dog after the tsunami in Japan, but in the event that you haven’t, it’s worth 2 minutes of your time to have a look. Watch the video and then put it in context with your own day-to-day lives, worries, and stresses. It tugs the heart-strings. Click here to view the embedded video. You can’t get any more ‘survival’ oriented than that. It is eye-opening to watch the behavior of animals – often so similar to you and I. I just hope that they were helped. Modern Survival Blog related posts Tsunami Warning, San Francisco, California Survival and Dog Food, sojos Indonesia Earthquake-Tsunami-Volcano Prep for your Pet
Posted in Disasters Tags: California, Disasters, embedded, Francisco, Japan, million-viewers, Tsunami, tugs-the-heart, Video, Warning Comments OffFire and Disaster Response Products in Japan: A Strategic Entry Report, 1998
Product DescriptionThis report puts executives and strategic planners on the fast track. The first chapter describes the study’s methodology. The second chapter gives an overview of how to strategically access the market, mid-term forecasts of latent demand and accessibility benchmarks. The remaining nine chapters are not industry specific, but instead discuss economic fundamentals, marketing & distribution options, export and direct investment options, and full risk assessments (p… More >>
Fire and Disaster Response Products in Japan: A Strategic Entry Report, 1998
Earthquake Situation Report, 2011 Q1
Earthquake Summary, 2011, first-quarter We are now a quarter the way through the year 2011, and it is time for a world update on earthquake numbers with relation to some historical averages. Geological reference times are quite long, and modern day seismic monitoring systems are just that, modern day – relatively speaking. The USGS posts annual average earthquake numbers since 1990, so, that is what we will compare our results against. Annual Average number of earthquakes since 1990 Magnitude 5 – 5.9 (1,319) Magnitude 6 – 6.9 (134) Magnitude 7 – 7.9 (14) Magnitude 8+ (1) One way to compare numbers is to calculate a year-to-date average number. As the year progresses, the numbers will become increasingly accurate. Historical average number of earthquakes through the 90′th day of the year, since 1990, Magnitude 5 – 5.9 (325) Magnitude 6 – 6.9 (33) Magnitude 7 – 7.9 (4) Magnitude 8 + (0.25) As of the 90′th day of 2011, Magnitude 5 – 5.9 (754) 232 percent of ‘normal’ Magnitude 6 – 6.9 (80) 242 percent of ‘normal’ Magnitude 7 – 7.9 (7) 199 percent of ‘normal’ Magnitude 8 + (1) ‘normal’ Clearly, the Great Quake of Japan, magnitude 9.0, has increased the total number of lower magnitude earthquakes due to the large number of aftershocks. It also looks like it may be another ‘above average’ year – time will tell. 2010 Earthquakes were above average as well . If you enjoyed this, or topics of preparedness or current events risk awareness, consider our survival blog RSS feed, new posts by E-mail, or bookmark us at Modern Survival Blog Modern Survival Blog related posts 2011 EarthQuake Statistics, YTD method Incoming search terms: how many earthquakes in new zealand annually mar 31 2011 earthquake report
Posted in Disasters Tags: average-as-well, current events, Earth, Japan, Magnitude, modern-survival, numbers, plugin, quarter-the-way, seo, summary, Survival, terms-tagging, Year Comments OffFukushima Japan, Meltdown Update
Arnie Gundersen of Fairewinds Associate Inc., has provided several video-opinion updates regarding the Fukushima-Japan nuclear power plant disaster. Given his credentials (listed below), his practical and straight-forward demeanor, I find it beneficial to hear what he has to say. So much so that I’m writing this short post regarding his most recent update that he posted today. The main stream media has not dedicated much of its time to covering this disaster as it continues to unfold, which is probably one of the reasons why I feel more compelled to stay on the general topic given that this site is about ‘modern survival’. This situation certainly presents a big time threat to survival there in Japan, while so far it has not ‘apparently’ escalated to the point of other nations. Even if it never goes beyond Japan’s borders in a big way, we can all learn valuable lessons from what has happened, and what may be still to come. None of this is fear mongering whatsoever. Instead it is highlighting, examining, and commenting on a real-time disaster, it’s effects on the local region, and the possible effects outside of the region in the time to come. Becoming educated about a given disaster scenario will only empower you to take better control of yourself and your actions, without entirely relying on outside organizations for information (e.g. government, corporation spokespeople, main-stream-media, etc..). The following are the notes that I wrote down while watching Arnie’s latest video: Plutonium has been found at 5 different locations on site (all 5 soil samples), which implies that no doubt there will be more discovered – probably outside the nuclear plant location. Plutonium detection is not detected or picked up with traditional Geiger counters. Belief that plutonium coming from fuel pool no. 4, but can’t rule out the other reactors. Highly radioactive water found outside in ‘trenches’, means the container building isn’t ‘containing’. Radioactivity in the water is over 100 Rem/h (anyone standing near it for 3 or 4 hours receives a lethal dose of radiation). Believes the trench water is leaking into the ocean. Damage inside of the core is enormous (fuel rods used for 4 years – built up ‘decay heat’, exposed without cooling for days). 70 – 80 percent of core is probably damaged. Molten slag drops to the bottom of the reactor, damaging seals and gradually eating its way through the reactor. Quote: “Frankly, I don’t see how it’s going to be stopped in the short term.” Click here to view the embedded video. About: Arnie Gundersen is an energy adviser with 39-years of nuclear power engineering experience. A former nuclear industry senior vice president, he earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in nuclear engineering, holds a nuclear safety patent, and was a licensed reactor operator. During his nuclear industry career, Arnie managed and coordinated projects at 70-nuclear power plants around the country. If you enjoyed this, or topics of preparedness or current events risk awareness, consider our survival blog RSS feed, new posts by E-mail, or bookmark us at Modern Survival Blog Modern Survival Blog related posts Plutonium and Nuclear Meltdown, Japan Radiation, Japan, and the Inverse-Square Law U.S. Nuclear Power Plants, safe distance? Geiger Counter Numbers, How Bad is Bad? The Main Stream and Potassium Iodide Incoming search terms: fukushima meltdown blog fukushima update fukushima updates meltdown daiichi meltdown updates on Japan meltdown today update japanese meltdown today media blackout fukishima japan meltdown fukushima japan fukushima meltdown fukushima update blogs
Posted in Disasters Tags: arnie-gundersen, current events, Japan, modern-survival, nuclear-power, Nuclear., Power, Search, Survival, tagging, Time, Water Comments OffRadiation, Japan, and the Inverse-Square Law
When considering the potential for radiation spreading out from the severely damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, it is very important to understand the ‘ inverse-square law ‘, which helps to put in context the potential intensity of radioactive Fallout as it relates to distance. What is the inverse-square law? It is a physical law (Newton) stating that a specified physical quantity or strength is inversely proportional to the square of the distance from the source of that physical quantity. Translation: For every doubling of distance away from the source that is emitting an ‘intensity’ (in this case, radiation), the radiation will be diluted to one-fourth the original quantity as it disperses into three-dimensional space to a point representing a doubling of distance . If you double the distance between you and the source of radiation, you will theoretically be exposed to one-fourth the amount. There are variables of course, like the wind carrying concentrated amounts of radioactive particles in a particular direction, but the concept of the inverse-square law is helpful when putting distance versus dosage into perspective. The Math – Inverse-Square Law The Inverse-Square Law formula is as follows: I1/I2 = (D2*D2)/(D1*D1) I1 = Intensity at D1 I2 = Intensity at D2 D1 = Distance 1 D2 = Distance 2 To solve for the intensity at a location where an original set of measurements are known, we can solve for ‘I2′ by using the following version of the formula: I2 = (I1*(D1*D1))/(D2*D2) Average Radiation Dosage for Americans First, lets put it in terms relating to the average dose per day that Americans get from natural and man-made radiation… 600 milliRem per year 6 milliSieverts per year 0.016438 mSv per day (milli Sieverts) 16.438 uSv per day (micro Sieverts) 0.000684932 mSv per hour (milli Sieverts) 0.684931507 uSv per hour (micro Sieverts) Real world radiation examples relating to the Fukushima nuclear plant Some recent reporting that appears valid, indicates that the radiation level at and around the immediate vicinity of the plant is around 500 uSv/h (micro Sieverts per hour). This is equivalent to 730 times the average radiation per hour that Americans receive! The highest number I had read about earlier during the crisis was around 3,000 uSv/h. This is equivalent to 4,380 times the average radiation per hour that Americans receive! The situation is obviously quite terrible nearby the plant and at least out to the current evacuation perimeter that has been recommended, 20 miles (the U.S. has recommended 50 miles). Radiation making it to the U.S. and the Inverse-Square Law I know that many in the U.S. have been highly concerned about radioactivity making its way here. And in fact as most of us have read reports that very small amounts have been detected. Having an engineering background, I know about the inverse-square law, and know that the levels here will remain very small in comparison to Japan. I also know that there are variables to this basic theory when we’re talking about radioactive Fallout. Despite the inverse-square law, a great deal depends on how many particles make it on the wind currents. Also, the inverse-square law is somewhat challenged here because the particles will concentrate within fairly narrow wind patterns at first, while later on dispersing more. Regardless of the variables though, here is the math while using the radiation numbers in Japan at Fukushima, 500 uSv/h (micro Sieverts per hour ). You can run the numbers yourself with the formula above, but here are my results based on the following assumptions. I1 = 500 uSv/h D1 = 0.1 miles (about 500 feet around the plant) D2 = 4,500 miles (distance to California) Solve for I2 = (500*(0.1*0.1))/(4,500*4,500) I2 = 0.000000246914 uSv/h (micro Sieverts per hour) I2 = 0.000000000247 mSv/h (milli Sieverts per hour) This is equivalent to 0.000036% of the average per hour that we normally get. Conclusion Now before some of you jump all over me, bear in mind that there are variables here that will offset these numbers… Wind patterns, both low level and high level Precipitation The current situation today reveals that there is a reactor breach at No. 3 The risk is still there that a reactor may explode (or more than one) The radiation levels there could shoot substantially higher There is an added problem with Reactor No. 3 using MOX fuel (with Plutonium) Accuracy of the numbers coming from TEPCO and the Japanese government There will be long term effects from particles with long ‘half-life’s’ such as Cesium-137 We will have a ‘generations’ risk of consuming foods from the contaminated regions The point here is, consider the perspective between what is currently happening there and what is or might happen here. We should remain vigilant, and continue to remain prepared for variables, changes in the current situation, and to realize that we have many risks around us – many of them out-of-sight and out-of-mind. If you enjoyed this, or topics of preparedness or current events risk awareness, consider our survival blog RSS feed, new posts by E-mail, or bookmark us at Modern Survival Blog Modern Survival Blog related posts U.S. Nuclear Power Plants, safe distance? Geiger Counter Numbers, How Bad is Bad? The Main Stream and Potassium Iodide Ops Center Open, “Response Teams on Standby” in CA, says Surgeon General Civility During Japanese Disaster Incoming search terms: mrem japan fallout california california radiation japan fukushima jet stream california illinois hurricane earl america Japan Atomkatastrophe OR Reaktorkatastrophe OR Fukushima OR Trinkwasser OR Radioaktiv OR Atomkraft
Hope For Japan Tsunami American Red Cross Juniors Navy Blue T-shirt Tee
Hope For Japan Tsunami American Red Cross Juniors Navy Blue T-shirt Tee
Japan Earthquake and Tsunami- A massive Disaster: we’re here to help them!
On 11th March’ 2011 there was a sudden and massive earthquake (nearly 8.9 in Richter scale) that struck off the northeast coast of Japan near the city of Sendai. That earthquake produced a gigantic tsunami that peaked at 33 feet. That massive disaster resulted in floods, fires and closure of airports with transport systems. So many people have died so far, on 14th March there was a report of 10,000 deaths and counting was going on, so probably that number has reached quite high now.
Earthquakes are the most frequent natural calamity in Japan. Japan has constant earthquake activities due to its geographical location. Japan is situated on a subduction zone, which is where one plate is being forced beneath another. It is also at the meeting point of two pieces of the giant Pacific plate, which are moving in different directions alongside each other.
Following is a report provided by savethechildren.org, it’s showing the most painful picture of present Japan:
An estimated 100,000 children have been displaced from their homes
Japan facing three disasters: earthquake, tsunami and nuclear radiation
Japan is on high nuclear alert for two nuclear reactors in Fukushima
Many tsunami-affected areas are still cut off from relief
More than 465 roads, 43 bridges and seven railways washed away
More than 380,000 people evacuated across the country
Now this is the time to raise our hands and stand beside them! Though this is a very small effort and we can’t return them whatever they’ve lost already! We can’t compensate the damage to a child who just lost his father or to a mother who lost her baby in the disaster! But what we can do, we can help those survived people to stay alive and for now financial support is the main support!
Hostome wants to help those people by donating 25% of every order placed! This is just a small effort from our side but we really feel for those unfortunate people and would like to say that don’t worry we’re with you!
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Geiger Counter Numbers, How Bad is Bad?
Given the recent events in Japan and the nuclear reactor damage and radiation entering the atmosphere there, the following information may help to understand the units of measurement being discussed, and how it may correlate to Geiger Counter readings such as those being displayed around the country on the Radiation Network . Units of Measurement (Radiation) 1 rad = 0.01 gray (Gy) 1 rem = 0.01 sievert (Sv) 1 gray (Gy) = 100 rad 1 sievert (Sv) = 100 rem Rad and Gray are ‘absorbed dose’ units. Rem and Sievert are ‘equivalent dose’ units. Why a Rem and a Sievert? They relate to biological damage done to human tissue and factor the differences between types of radiation. A multiplication factor is used that represents the ‘effective’ biological damage of a given type of radiation. This is the main reason for these units – to factor the differences in damage this is caused from one type of radiation to the next. Radiation Factor (QF Quality Factor) (1) Beta (1) Gamma (1) X-ray (10) Nuetron (20) Alpha For example, the list above shows that a ‘rad’ or ‘gray’ unit of ‘Alpha’ energy that is absorbed by soft human tissue does 20 times more damage than a ‘rad’ or ‘gray’ of Gamma, X-ray or Beta radiation. Measuring Radiation with a Geiger Counter CPM What is CPM (also the ‘number’ used on the Radiation Network )? CPM (counts per minute) is a measure of radioactivity, a unit of measurement for a Geiger counter. Technically, “It is the number of atoms in a given quantity of radioactive material that are detected to have decayed in one minute.” Most Geiger counters are calibrated to Cs137 (Cesium). 1,200 CPM on the meter (for Cs137) is about 1 mR/hr (milliRad per hour). 120 CPM on the meter (for Cs137) is about 1 uSv/hr (microSievert per hour). How many CPM of radiation is bad? Answer: It depends on how long you are exposed at any given level. The Radiation Network website, for example, uses a threshold warning level of 100 CPM, mainly because it is unusual to observe levels of 100 or higher without something more going on in the area than just background level. Having said that, how could one figure out the ‘badness’ of a given level? How bad is bad? All we need to do is put in terms that makes sense. First, we must understand a few radiation facts and numbers regarding dosage. There tend to be lots of conversions and it can be confusing, but by plodding through the math, you can determine a better idea and relationship of the Geiger counter numbers versus the risks to your health. Radiation Dosage Radiation dosage is a measure of the risk of biological harm that the tissues receive in the body. The unit of absorbed radiation dose is the sievert (Sv). Since one sievert is a large quantity, radiation doses normally encountered are expressed in milliSievert (mSv) or microSievert (µSv) which are one-thousandth or one millionth of a sievert. For example, one chest X-ray will give about 0.2 mSv of radiation dose. On average, our annual radiation exposure due to all natural sources is about 300 milliRem, which is equivalent to 3 milliSieverts (3 mSv). Adding man-made sources (medical procedures, and others) the average annual U.S. radiation dose is about 600 milliRem, which is equivalent to 6 milliSieverts (6 mSv). Average annual human exposure to radiation (U.S.) 600 milliRem (mRem) 6 milliSievert (mSv) Radiation dose for increase cancer risk of 1 in a 1,000 1,250 milliRem (mRem) 12.5 milliSievert (mSv) Earliest onset of radiation sickness 75,000 milliRem (mRem) 750 milliSievert (mSv) Onset of radiation poisoning 300,000 milliRem (mRem) 3,000 milliSievert (mSv) Expected 50% death from radiation 400,000 milliRem (mRem) 4,000 milliSievert (mSv) What do the Radiation Network CPM numbers mean with regards to health risk? With the examples of radiation dose listed above, we can correlate how long it would take to experience those effects based on a hypothetical Geiger counter CPM number . So, let’s use the number 100, since this is the threshold that the Radiation Network website has chosen. The Cs137 calibration factor listed above (120 CPM) was converted to obtain the proper factored results listed below (0.83x). Higher CPM numbers are also listed for relevancy. Days compared with the avg. annual human exposure (U.S.) 207 (at 100 CPM) 42 (at 500 CPM) 14 (at 1,500 CPM) 2 (at 10,000 CPM) Days to receive dose for increase cancer risk of 1 in a 1,000 432 (at 100 CPM) 86 (at 500 CPM) 28 (at 1,500 CPM) 4 (at 10,000 CPM) Days for earliest onset of radiation sickness 25,937 (at 100 CPM) 5,187 (at 500 CPM) 1,729 (at 1,500 CPM) 259 (at 10,000 CPM) Conclusion: Regarding the radioactive fallout from Japan reaching here to the U.S., the metered Geiger Counter CPM that we see on the Radiation Network can be compared to the equivalent ‘what-IF’ scenarios listed above. Not saying though that anything less would not be ‘bad’ for us, there are lots of theories out there regarding long-term effects of various types of radioactive ionized particles making it into the food chain, etc… Interesting fact: All food sources combined, expose a person to around 40 millirems per year on average. Many foods are naturally radioactive, and bananas are particularly so, due to the radioactive potassium-40 they contain. The equivalent dose for 365 bananas (one per day for a year) is 3.6 millirems (36 μSv). Other foods that have above-average levels are potatoes, kidney beans, nuts (especially brazil nuts), and sunflower seeds. Ways to limit radiation exposure: 1. Time (limit exposure time) 2. Distance (intensity decreases sharply according to the inverse-square-law) 3. Shielding (alpha: nearly anything… a sheet of paper will stop it) (beta: wood, water, plastic-acrylic, aluminum) (gamma: water, concrete, lead) Disclaimer: Do not rely upon this information for life or health, it is only one person’s estimation based on a several hours research and punching calculator buttons. We have no affiliation with the Radiation Network, who may or may not agree with these numbers. If you enjoyed this, or topics of preparedness or current events risk awareness, consider our survival blog RSS feed, new posts by E-mail, or bookmark us at Modern Survival Blog Modern Survival Blog related posts The Main Stream and Potassium Iodide Ops Center Open, “Response Teams on Standby” in CA, says Surgeon General Civility During Japanese Disaster Jet-Stream Animation, Japan to USA, Fallout? Fukushima Reactor No.2, THE most Vulnerable Design Incoming search terms: geiger counter network geiger counter san francisco average radioactivity cpm sf ca JAPAN CPM RADIATION PER MINUTE on a geiger counter what number is bad over 100 cpm is bad radiation radiation cpm bad radiation network california reading a geiger counter San francisco geiger counter understand number form geiger counter how many cpm on gieger counter is safe
The Main Stream and Potassium Iodide
The only single government official (U.S. government -that is) that seems to ‘get it’ regarding sensible preparedness in general, including having Potassium Iodide in your medicine cabinet, seems to be the Surgeon General Regina Benjamin, although even she probably got a slap on the wrist for making the common-sense statements that she made in San Francisco during March 15th. When it comes to being prepared (which is a term that has obvious wide ranging meaning), at its essence is a desire for some self-reliance. It is a purposeful step and state-of-being that provides oneself with a bit of insurance and a bit of self-sufficiency. The government, at its essence, is an enormous set of bureaucracies that continuously needs a purpose ‘to be’, and continuously grows larger. They ‘want’ and need you to be dependent upon them to a degree. This enables them to ‘provide’ and to have purpose, and to grow. Before anyone shoots off an email… of course there are necessary roles of a government, and the purpose of the statement is not political or to open that door. The point is, this fly’s in the face, so-to-speak, with those that choose to be more self-reliant. This is a broad brush statement, I know, and no doubt there are plenty of good folks in our government. Just pointing out a bigger picture as I see it, in order to draw a background for the the rest of this post… Having said that, and the reason for saying that, is the dramatically obvious vilification that is presently going on towards anyone who dares to speak about Potassium Iodide , the tablet that would aid towards blocking thyroid cancer in the event of being in the presence of ‘enough’ iodine-131 radiation. Every government spokesperson, and probably 95 percent of the main-stream-media is laughing at the notion and presenting it as though it is a Class-C substance while anyone who is purchasing it must be off their rocker or some kind of a nut. They continue to site the ‘horrible’ ‘possible’ side effects such as stomach-ache or nausea, or possible allergic reaction. Not saying that people should not be aware of any adverse effect before taking anything new, but what I am saying is that the absurdity of vilifying something like this for someone to have in their medicine cabinet ‘just in case’ is downright irresponsible. Sure, Fukushima Japan is 4,500 miles from the west coast. Sure, it would require the radiation to enter the wind stream at a high enough altitude to begin the trip across the jet stream. Sure, whatever makes it up there will be greatly dispersed over time and distance. Sure, it may seem that the current likelihood of ‘enough’ particles making its way to the west to be low enough not to be overly concerned. Sure there are those who are overly panicked about the situation and may not fully understand that they’re not going to drop dead on Saturday. But to laugh in the face of such seemingly common sense logic of someone who has purchased a supply of Potassium Iodide as a precaution, is just pure lunacy, in my opinion. Do these same people purchase homeowners insurance? Do these same people have a bottle of aspirin in their medicine cabinet – just in case? You get the idea… Sure, if Potassium Iodide was truly a dangerous substance that required special care or knowledge, of course, this would be warranted. But it is an over-the-counter supplement. The FDA has obviously not restricted it. There is a reason for that… that is, it’s not that dangerous. (Insert liability statement: This is not medical advice, and of course anyone can become ill by taking too much of anything – pretty much common sense) Just thought it necessary to point out what seems to be responsible behavior (in this case having a supply of Potassium Iodide, ‘just in case’) which is being demonized by the government and main-stream-media here in the U.S. End Of Message Modern Survival Blog related posts Ops Center Open, “Response Teams on Standby” in CA, says Surgeon General Civility During Japanese Disaster Jet-Stream Animation, Japan to USA, Fallout? Fukushima Reactor No.2, THE most Vulnerable Design West Coast USA Danger IF Japan Nuclear Reactor Meltdown Incoming search terms: potassium iodide east coast potassium iodide medicine the main stream and potassium iodide aqmd-aleutian islands-radiation survival kit potassium iodide www nytimes com/2011/03/17/science/17plume html
Posted in Disasters Tags: center-open, Government, Japan, nuclear meltdon, opinion, potassium-iodide, seo, surgeon, tagging Comments OffOps Center Open, “Response Teams on Standby” in CA, says Surgeon General
credit: NBC BAY AREA Responding to a question regarding the appropriateness of the opening of the California Joint Emergency Operations Center in response to the radiation leak in Japan, U.S. Surgeon General Regina Benjamin said today in San Francisco, “We have to be prepared”. She went on to say, “…but if we don’t need them, then that’s OK”. Regina Benjamin’s statements sounded as though she may be a ‘prepper’ herself, statements that reflected a rational, logical, and preparedness minded set of priorities. Further quotes from the surgeon general included, “The more you prepare, the better you can be, the more lives we save.” “Whatever we can do to try to plan, we just need to be as proactive as we can to try to save lives and keep people healthier.” “Also, to educate people how to be prepared themselves.” Regarding the current situation of possible airborne radiation making it’s way to the west coast U.S. from Fukushima Japan, she said, “We need to wait and see, but I do think that we can’t be over-prepared”. When asked if buying iodine pills was an overreaction, she said we should all be prepared. (I think I like this Surgeon General) The U.S. government is obviously preparing for a just-in-case scenario here in California, while at the same time most main-stream-media outlets continue to insist that there is hardly a chance for any negative effects. The later part of the interview reveals the statement about ‘response teams’. The street side interview of U.S. Surgeon General Regina Benjamin can be viewed here. U.S. Surgeon General Says, Be Prepared If you enjoyed this, or topics of preparedness or current events risk awareness, consider our survival blog RSS feed, new posts by E-mail, or bookmark us at Modern Survival Blog Modern Survival Blog related posts Civility During Japanese Disaster Jet-Stream Animation, Japan to USA, Fallout? Fukushima Reactor No.2, THE most Vulnerable Design West Coast USA Danger IF Japan Nuclear Reactor Meltdown Incoming search terms: surgeon general radiation japan the U S Surgeon General and the state of California just opened an Emergency Operations Center and put ‘teams’ on standby bp co2 surgeon general radiation warning surgeon general warning nuclear surgeon general statement japan modern survival blog surgeon general U S Surgeon General and the state of California just opened an Emergency Operations Cent surgeon general statements on japan surgeon general warning about Japanese nuclear fallout •U S Surgeon General and the state of California just opened an Emergency Operations Center •CA & surgeon general open radiation centers
Posted in Disasters Tags: California, current events, Emergency, Interview, Japan, japan-nuclear, modern-survival, nuclear meltdon, Nuclear., plugin, regina-benjamin, surgeon, surgeon-general, Survival, tagging Comments OffFukushima Reactor No.2, THE most Vulnerable Design
The nuclear power reactor of Unit No. 2 at the Fukushima I (Daiichi) power plant, is a General Electric Boiling Water Reactor (BWR) completed during 1974. The containment designs are referred to by the names Mark I (oldest), Mark II, and Mark III (newest). The No. 2 reactor at Fukushima Daiichi is a Mark I (oldest). The No. 2 reactor at Fukushima Daiichi currently has a ‘stuck’ vent valve. The No. 2 reactor at Fukushima Daiichi is currently suffering a meltdown. In 1986, Harold Denton, then the NRC’s top safety official, told an industry trade group that the “Mark I containment, especially being smaller with lower design pressure, in spite of the suppression pool, if you look at the WASH 1400 safety study, you’ll find something like a 90% probability of that containment failing .” The GE Mark I reactor design is called a “pressure suppression” design. Rather than be built to withstand large pressure increases, General Electric sought with this design to attempt to reduce such increases in an accident scenario. The design has been criticized by independent nuclear experts and even Nuclear Regulatory Commission staff for many years. In a General Electric Mark I reactor, the containment building is fairly weak and is considered the secondary containment. The primary containment is a steel liner that surrounds the reactor core. Apparently the GE Mark I pressure suppression containment was conceived as a cost-saving alternative to the larger reinforced concrete containment’s. From NIRS, A report by NRC published in 1993 confirmed that age-related degradation in BWRs (Boiling Water Reactors) will damage or destroy many vital safety-related components inside the reactor vessel before the forty year license expires. The NRC report states “Failure of internals could create conditions that may challenge the integrity the reactor primary containment systems.” The study looked at major components in the reactor vessel and found that safety-related parts were vulnerable to failure as the result of the deterioration of susceptible materials (Type 304 stainless steel ) due to chronic radiation exposure, heat, fatigue, and corrosive chemistry. One such safety-related component is the core shroud and it is also an indicator of cracking in other vital components through the reactor made of the same material. Update, 14-Mar, 2300 UTC The No. 2 reactor at Fukushima Daiichi has just reportedly exploded ( Updates on the Fukushima situation here ) If you enjoyed this, or topics of preparedness or current events risk awareness, consider our survival blog RSS feed, new posts by E-mail, or bookmark us at Modern Survival Blog Modern Survival Blog related posts West Coast USA Danger IF Japan Nuclear Reactor Meltdown Incoming search terms: suppression pool fukushima Fukushima suppression pool reactor No 2 fukushima supression pool ge mark i containment fukushima design fukushima reactor no 2 Fukushima reactor 2 Fukushimas No 2 reactor diagrams fukushima reactor types reactor suppression pool fukushima reactor suppression chamber
Posted in Disasters Tags: boiling-water, current events, Design, fukushima-daiichi, Japan, japan-nuclear, nuclear meltdon, plugin, Search, seo, Survival, the-reactor, usa, Water Comments OffWest Coast USA Danger IF Japan Nuclear Reactor Meltdown
“If they can’t restore power to the plant (and cool the reactor), then there’s the possibility of some sort of core meltdown” . An alarming statement made by James Acton, a physicist who examined Japan’s Kashiwazaki nuclear plant after a 2007 earthquake, who told CNN that Japanese authorities are in race to cool down the Fukushima reactor. Following the fifth largest earthquake in recorded world history, a magnitude 8.9 earthquake, has resulted in the closure of all Japan’s nuclear power reactors, one of which, the Fukushima reactor, is overheating and in danger of a meltdown if coolant is not restored soon. It’s like a pressure cooker… when you have something generating heat and you don’t cool it off or release the steam… Reported from abc NEWS, Scientists said that even though the reactor had stopped producing energy, its fuel continues to generate heat and needs steady levels of coolant to prevent it from overheating and triggering a dangerous cascade of events. They go on to say, “Up to 100 percent of the volatile radioactive Cesium-137 content of the pools could go up in flames and smoke, to blow downwind over large distances,” “Given the large quantity of irradiated nuclear fuel in the pool, the radioactivity release could be worse than the Chernobyl nuclear reactor catastrophe of 25 years ago.” said Kevin Kamps, a nuclear waste specialist. Fukushima I (there are two plant locations) is one of the 25 largest nuclear power stations in the world. How would a nuclear plant meltdown unfold? Control rods are driven back down into the core upon emergency (if rods don’t make it all the way… trouble) The coolant (water) could cease if backup systems fail (electricity, pumps, generators, batteries) Reactor continues to produce heat Numerous venting valve systems would release pressure above ~1,000 psi into containment vessel Eventually the uranium fuel encasement metal will melt (2,200 deg F) Radioactive contamination then released into the reactor vessel Radiation escapes into an outer, concrete containment building Radiation escapes into the environment. Not only would such a disaster be horrible for the local region and Japan, but other countries, namely the U.S. would be effected next by airborne radiation particles, the magnitude of which is yet to be determined. Why would the west coast USA be in danger? The prevailing jet stream winds are blowing from Japan directly across the Pacific ocean to the west coast of the United States. Any airborne radiation would make its way across with the jet stream, reaching the U.S. in approximately 36 hours , depending on the actual speed of the jet. Image of the Jet Stream from Japan to the U.S. Update, BBC News Asia-Pacific is now reporting that radiation levels inside the nuclear reactor are 1,000 times of normal , and there are now high levels (unspecified) ‘outside’ of the nuclear reactor plant. They report that people are being evacuated in an approximate 6-mile perimeter. Map of Nuclear Power Plant Reactors in Japan Fukushima Power Plant, Boiling Water Reactor (BWR) diagram Update, The Washington Post reports that a second nuclear reactor in the Fukushima power plant is also affected. The plant has a total of six reactors. Reports only a few hours left on battery power for cooling systems. Update, Clarification from NHK Wolrd News Japan… a second location, Fukushima II, not far from the Fukushima I nuclear power plant, is also experiencing cooling problems. The government’s Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency said equipment failures have made it impossible to cool 3 of the plant’s 4 reactors. (Translation: ‘impossible’ is not a good word). Update, Reuters is now reporting that Tokyo Electric Power Company has lost ability to control pressure at some of the reactors at its Fukushima II (Daini) plant nearby the Daiichi power plant (Fukushima I), both suffering from core cooling problems. If battery power at Fukushima II is depleted before AC power is restored, the plant will stop supplying water to the core and the cooling water level in the reactor core will drop. Update, Kyodo news reports that the cooling system has now failed at three nuclear reactors at Fukushima II, and the coolant water temperature has reached boiling level. Update, Kyodo news reports, “the operator of the two plants in Fukushima Prefecture is set to release pressure in containers housing their reactors under an unprecedented government order, so as to avoid the plants sustaining damage and losing their critical containment function.” …”the action would involve the release of steam that would likely include radioactive materials” Update, From Kyodo news, Japan, URGENT: Concerns of core partially melting at Fukushima nuke plant. The core at Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant’s No. 1 reactor may be partially melting, the nuclear safety agency said Saturday. Reuters, Japan authorities: TEPCO plant fuel rods may have melted -Jiji, …could develop into a breach of the nuclear reactor vessel and the question then becomes one of how strong the containment structure around the vessel is and whether it has been undermined by the earthquake A Boiling Water Reactor assembly (BWR) A BWR Fuel Assemblies and Control Rod Module A BWR system A BWR system Reuters, An explosion was heard and smoke was seen at the Tokyo Electric Power Company Fukushima No.1 nuclear power plant, Jiji news agency quoted the police as saying on Saturday. Outer structure of building that houses reactor at Fukushima plant appears to have blown off – NHK by Reuters_TonyTharakan at 3/12/2011 8:12:43 AM12:12 AM Tepco says explosion may have been hydrogen used to cool Fukushima plant – Kyodo; Tepco says 4 people taken to hospital after reported explosion, no word on condition – Jiji If you enjoyed this, or topics of preparedness or current events risk awareness, consider our survival blog RSS feed, new posts by E-mail, or bookmark us at Modern Survival Blog Modern Survival Blog related posts Incoming search terms: japan nuclear japan nuclear meltdown Nuclear meltdown nuclear meltdown japan japan meltdown japan reactor Japan nuclear plant meltdown japan reactor meltdown nuclear reactor meltdown japan nuclear fallout