Listen to this article

Where you should head to survive an apocalyptic nuclear winter, according to scientists

Where you should head to survive an apocalyptic nuclear winter, according to scientists

The Doomsday Clock has moved the closest to global catastrophe it has ever been - largely because of Russia's invasion of Ukraine and also the climate crisis. Now, a study finds five locations most likely to survive an apocalyptic nuclear winter.

If 2023 is the year the world starts to collapse, scientists think they know where you should head to survive.

The Doomsday Clock has moved the closest to global catastrophe it has ever been - largely because of Russia's invasion of Ukraine and also the climate crisis.

Now, researchers say Australia and New Zealand are among five island nations most likely to survive an apocalyptic nuclear winter.

The study, by the University of Otago and Adapt Research in New Zealand, looked at the impact of "a severe sun-reducing catastrophe" such as a nuclear war, super volcano or asteroid strike on global agricultural systems.

Researchers found Australia, New Zealand, Iceland, the Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu most capable of continuing to produce food despite the reduced sunlight and fall in temperatures - and help reboot a collapsed human civilisation.

They investigated the impact of abrupt sunlight reduction scenarios (ASRS) on 38 island nations and assessed 13 factors which would potentially determine the success of their survival.

These included comparing the nations' food production, energy self-sufficiency, manufacturing, trade relations, social cohesion, defences and population size.

"There will likely be pockets of survivors around the planet in even the most severe ASRS," the study said, with only the most "resilient" nations surviving.

Countries most likely to survive a nuclear winter

They focused on New Zealand as a case study and found while it might be able to produce enough food in such a crisis, its "shortcomings" lay in manufacturing and its dependence on energy imports.

Researchers also found the repercussions of a nuclear winter or other ASRS would not be evenly felt, with physical destruction, radioactive contamination and temperature decline most likely to occur and be the most severe in the Northern Hemisphere, rather than the Southern Hemisphere.

The researchers concluded: "It is our hypothesis that island nations, particularly in the Southern Hemisphere, would typically suffer less from ASRS. Complex technological society on such islands might persist, and targeted preparation could increase the probability of a global recovery."

The research has been published in the international journal, Risk Analysis.

A imaginary view of a nuclear blast
A nuclear winter is caused by the soot from widespread warhead blasts.

A nuclear winter is said to be what happens when huge fireballs from exploding nuclear warheads set fire to large tracts of land, causing massive plumes of smoke and dust that end up in the atmosphere, shrouding the surface of the planet. While millions would die in a nuclear apocalypse, millions more would perish from the impact on food supplies.

Log in to comment
JAnders replied the topic:
1 week 5 days ago
As a seasoned prepper with a decade of experience under my belt, I find this article incredibly insightful. It not only highlights the potential global risks we face but also points out some interesting locations for survival. That said, I'd like to add a piece of advice: don't underestimate the power of the ocean.

In the event of a nuclear winter or a similar catastrophe, island nations mentioned here like Australia, New Zealand, and the Solomon Islands may indeed have a survival advantage. However, it's worth considering the sea as another potential safe harbor. With a liveaboard capable vessel, like my 40-foot sailboat equipped with solar panels and a desalination system, it's possible to maintain a certain level of self-sufficiency.

Solar panels can provide sustainable energy even when the sun's radiance is reduced. A desalination system, on the other hand, can convert seawater into potable water, a critical resource in any survival scenario.

Furthermore, being on the water can offer a certain level of isolation from the mainlands and their potential threats, such as radioactive contamination. Of course, it's not without its own challenges. Navigating the open seas, managing resources, and maintenance of the boat are just a few hurdles one might face.

In essence, while these island nations might be safe bets, having a well-equipped vessel and the knowledge to sail could provide an alternative route to survival. This is perhaps a point that could be further explored, not only for preppers but also for anyone interested in unconventional survival methods.

Remember, when preparing for the worst, diversity in your options can be your best bet. Weathering a storm, be it literal or metaphorical, often requires the ability to adapt and make use of what you have at hand.
EmSmi replied the topic:
4 months 5 days ago
The article presents an interesting perspective on survival locales in the event of a nuclear winter. As a survivalist and sailor, I find this research quite enlightening. However, I'd like to add a few points for consideration.

While these five island nations may be ideal in terms of food production and climate, the practicality of reaching them during a global catastrophe might be challenging. As a liveaboard sailor, I can vouch for the difficulty of crossing oceans, especially under severe weather conditions. And in a post-apocalyptic scenario, who's to say what the sea conditions would be?

Survival isn't just about the destination, it's about the journey as well. Having a well-prepared sailboat with self-sustaining systems like solar panels and a desalination system, like my own 'Sea Breeze', allows for extended survival at sea. It's a mobile shelter that can navigate to safer areas while providing basic necessities.

Also, a secluded island doesn't necessarily have to be one of the nations mentioned. There are countless small, uninhabited islands around the world that could provide a temporary safe haven in case of a catastrophe. Plus, living on a boat offers the flexibility to move if the situation on the island becomes unmanageable.

Lastly, I'd like to emphasize the importance of prepping. Whether it's for a nuclear winter or a severe storm, being prepared is vital. It's not just about having a plan; it's about having the skills, supplies, and mindset to adapt and overcome. As the saying goes, "It's better to have it and not need it, than need it and not have it."

Safe sailing and happy prepping, folks!