Expert Identifies Most Dangerous US States in Potential World War 3

Nuclear policy expert warns nowhere is truly safe from fallout and radiation exposure

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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A nuclear policy expert has revealed a list of the US states that could face the highest risk if World War 3 breaks out. According to the expert, states like Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Nebraska, South Dakota, North Dakota, Iowa, and Minnesota are most at danger due to their proximity to missile silos. While coastal states may face less direct radiation, the expert warns that a nuclear war would trigger a nuclear winter that could kill nearly everyone.

Why it matters

With rising global tensions and the recent military strikes in Iran, there are growing fears that World War 3 could be imminent. Identifying the most vulnerable US states is crucial for emergency planning and preparedness efforts in case of a large-scale nuclear conflict.

The details

The expert advice comes from John Erath, Senior Policy Director for the Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation, who noted that 'nowhere is truly 'safe' from fallout' and its consequences. While those living near military facilities and missile silos would face the most immediate and severe consequences, a nuclear war would carry radiation across the North American continent. Christian G. Appy of the University of Massachusetts Amherst added that even a 'small' nuclear war would be enough to trigger a nuclear winter that would 'kill all or nearly all of those who survived the blast, firestorms, and radiation of the war'.

  • The recent military strikes in Iran by US and Israeli forces occurred on February 28, 2026.

The players

John Erath

Senior Policy Director for the Center for Arms Control and Non-Proliferation.

Christian G. Appy

Professor at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

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What they’re saying

“While those who live near military facilities, ICBM silos in the Midwest or submarine bases along the coasts might bear the most immediate and severe consequences of a nuclear attack, there's no question: ANY nuclear war or weapons detonation would be bad for everyone.”

— John Ebert, Senior Policy Director (Newsweek)

“Even a 'small' nuclear war would be enough to trigger a nuclear winter that would 'kill all or nearly all of those who survived the blast, firestorms, and radiation of the war'.”

— Christian G. Appy, Professor (Newsweek)

What’s next

Experts recommend that residents in the identified high-risk states review emergency preparedness plans and consider relocation options in the event of a large-scale nuclear conflict.

The takeaway

This report highlights the urgent need for comprehensive nuclear disarmament efforts and international cooperation to prevent the catastrophic consequences of World War 3. While no region would be truly safe, identifying the most vulnerable areas can help guide emergency planning and save lives in the event of a nuclear war.