As the threat of a nuclear war intensifies, the terrifying reality of what could happen after the bombs explode may cause more fear than the initial cataclysm. However, each of those fireballs have long-lasting consequences for the planet and everyone within range of their deadly radiation clouds. Not only would survivors not have clean water, but insects would multiply rapidly, feeding on the corpses littering the streets. The vast cloud of smoke would rapidly cool the planet, reflecting sunlight back into space. However, scientists have argued that those in shelters could actually be killed by the fires started in the explosions.

Source: Daily Mail March 22, 2026 04:05 UTC