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Power and Light · Guide

EMP (electromagnetic pulse) sources and effects

An explainer on nuclear, non-nuclear and solar EMPs, what they do to grids, communications and the economy, and how the U.S. government has prepared.

Quick facts

Sources
nuclear (NEMP), non-nuclear weapons (NNEMP), coronal mass ejections
NEMP cause
gamma rays from a high-altitude nuclear explosion
NNEMP
localized; conventional explosives plus electrical devices
Historic solar event
Carrington Event of 1859
EMP Commission
established by Congress in 2001
Executive order
2019, Coordinating National Resilience to Electromagnetic Pulses

An electromagnetic pulse (EMP) is a burst of energy that can damage the power grid and electronics over a wide area. But what exactly is an EMP, and why should you be concerned about it? This article aims to break down the various sources of EMPs and delve deep into the implications of using such a pulse, particularly in a war setting.

The three sources at a glance

SourceWhat causes itReach
Nuclear (NEMP)Gamma rays from a high-altitude nuclear explosionVast. Potentially an entire continent
Non-nuclear weapon (NNEMP)Conventional explosives combined with electrical devicesLocalized and precise: a specific facility or piece of equipment
SolarLarge solar flares, or coronal mass ejectionsSatellites, radio communications, and power grids. The Carrington Event of 1859 is the historic example

Nuclear Electromagnetic Pulse (NEMP)

A Nuclear Electromagnetic Pulse, or NEMP, is one of the most widely known sources of EMP. It results from high-altitude nuclear explosions. When a nuclear explosion occurs in the atmosphere, it releases a burst of gamma rays. Those gamma rays knock electrons loose from air molecules in the upper atmosphere. Earth's magnetic field bends the electrons, and that produces a fast pulse (E1, peaking in nanoseconds) that hits everything in line of sight of the burst, followed by a slow pulse (E3) that drives huge currents through long power lines.

Effects

The pulse created by a NEMP can cover a vast area, potentially even an entire continent if detonated at a high enough altitude. Such a wide-reaching pulse can disable electronic equipment, destroy power grids, and even cause long-term damage to infrastructures.

Non-Nuclear Electromagnetic Pulse Weapons (NNEMP)

Unlike NEMP, Non-Nuclear Electromagnetic Pulse Weapons do not rely on nuclear explosions. Instead, NNEMPs use conventional explosives combined with electrical devices to produce a localized EMP effect.

Effects

These pulses are far more localized than NEMPs. However, they can be just as effective within their limited range. Their primary advantage is their precision: they can target specific facilities or equipment without causing widespread collateral damage.

Solar-Generated EMPs

Nature has its own way of showing its power. One such method is through solar-generated EMPs. Solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) are different events. A flare is a burst of radiation that can black out radio for minutes to hours. A CME is a cloud of charged plasma that reaches Earth in one to three days and sets off a geomagnetic storm, which is the part that threatens the grid.

Effects

A significant enough solar flare can disrupt satellites, radio communications, and even power grids. The Carrington Event of 1859 knocked out telegraph lines, and a 1989 storm blacked out Quebec for nine hours and destroyed a large transformer. These storms damage the grid through long power lines. They do not harm unplugged handheld electronics.

The Grave Consequences of EMPs in War Settings

In a war setting, EMPs, regardless of their source, can have devastating effects. Here's a closer look at the potential implications:

Disruption of Military Equipment

The military heavily relies on technology and electronic equipment. An EMP can knock out unhardened equipment. The Department of Defense has been hardening selected critical systems against EMP since the 1960s, so the most exposed gear is the commercial equipment and civilian infrastructure the military leans on.

Collapse of Communication Networks

Communication is a cornerstone of modern warfare. An EMP can cripple communication networks, leaving troops in the dark and leadership unable to command and control operations.

Infrastructure Breakdown

It's not just military installations that are vulnerable. An EMP can disrupt civilian infrastructures like power grids, water supplies, and transportation systems. Such disruptions can lead to chaos, especially in urban centers.

Economic Consequences

The long-term damage to infrastructures can lead to severe economic repercussions. Stock markets can crash, trade can come to a standstill, and daily business operations can be disrupted.

Why should you be concerned about an enemy using EMP technology?

An enemy's use of Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) technology is deeply concerning for several reasons:

1Widespread Infrastructure DamageEMPs can disrupt or permanently damage electrical and electronic systems. Critical infrastructure, such as power grids, water treatment facilities, and transportation systems, could be crippled for extended periods. Such disruptions would significantly impact a nation's ability to function.
2Military ParalysisModern military operations are heavily reliant on sophisticated electronic equipment and communication systems. An EMP attack could render these systems inoperable, leaving forces blind, mute, and deaf on the battlefield. This would critically impede a nation's defense capabilities, making it vulnerable to further attacks.
3Economic ConsequencesThe economic repercussions of a widespread EMP event could be catastrophic. With the power grid and electronic banking systems down, stock markets could crash, business operations could halt, and trade could be severely affected, plunging a nation into an economic crisis.
4Healthcare and Emergency Services ImpactMedical equipment, emergency communication systems, and tools essential for healthcare delivery could be rendered useless. This can result in loss of life, especially for those reliant on electronic medical devices or in critical care.
5Civil UnrestThe disruption of essential services, combined with limited access to information and dwindling resources, could lead to panic and civil unrest. This could exacerbate the situation, stretching emergency services thin and potentially leading to further loss of life and property.
6Long-term Recovery ChallengesDepending on the severity and extent of the EMP, recovery could take years. The interconnected nature of modern infrastructure means that damage to one system can cascade and affect multiple sectors.
7Cyber VulnerabilityPost an EMP attack, a nation's cyber defenses might be compromised, making it susceptible to cyber-attacks, data breaches, and espionage.
8Strategic Advantage for the AttackerBy using EMPs, an enemy can gain a significant tactical and strategic advantage, disabling defenses and infrastructure without the direct use of force or large-scale physical destruction.
9Absence of Physical WarningEMPs can be deployed without the visible theatrics of traditional warfare. There may be no immediate signs like inbound missiles, making it a stealthy and sudden form of attack.
10Difficulties in AttributionIdentifying the perpetrator of an EMP attack can be challenging, especially if it's a high-altitude detonation. This can delay or complicate a targeted retaliatory response.

Does the United States government train or have protocols if this happens?

Yes, the United States government is aware of the potential threats posed by Electromagnetic Pulses (EMPs) and has taken measures to train for, mitigate, and respond to such events. The concern about EMPs, especially those resulting from high-altitude nuclear explosions, dates back to Cold War-era nuclear tests. Over the years, various initiatives, studies, and protocols have been developed to address the potential impacts of EMPs.

1Commission to Assess the ThreatThe U.S. Congress established the "Commission to Assess the Threat to the United States from Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) Attack" in 2001. The commission was tasked with assessing the nature and magnitude of potential EMP threats, the country's vulnerability to these threats, and the capability to recover from an EMP event. The commission released reports highlighting vulnerabilities and made recommendations.
2Training and ExercisesVarious branches of the U.S. military and government agencies conduct training and exercises to prepare for the possibility of an EMP event, ensuring continuity of operations and rapid response to such threats.
3Infrastructure HardeningEfforts have been made to "harden" critical infrastructure against EMPs. Hardening can involve physically shielding equipment, using surge protectors, and establishing redundant systems.
4Executive OrderIn 2019, then-President Donald Trump signed an executive order titled "Coordinating National Resilience to Electromagnetic Pulses," which aimed to bolster national resilience to EMPs. The order directed federal agencies to identify critical infrastructure at risk, improve EMP resilience across the board, and promote R&D for EMP mitigation.
5Federal Plans and ProtocolsVarious federal agencies, such as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), have protocols and plans in place for responding to and recovering from EMP events.
6Collaboration with Private SectorThe U.S. government works with the private sector, especially utility companies, to develop strategies and standards for EMP resilience, as a significant portion of the power grid is owned and operated by private entities.
7Research and DevelopmentThe U.S. has invested in research to better understand the effects of EMPs and develop mitigation strategies. Laboratories and defense agencies study potential EMP impacts on different systems and technologies.
8Public Awareness and PreparednessWhile the primary focus is on protecting national security and critical infrastructure, there are also efforts to educate the public about EMPs and encourage personal preparedness.

What happens to everyday people if there's an EMP on a large scale?

An Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) on a large scale, especially if it affects a significant portion of a country or continent, would have profound and immediate consequences for everyday citizens. Here's a breakdown of how life might change in the aftermath of a major EMP event:

1Loss of PowerThe most immediate and noticeable effect would be the widespread loss of electricity. Power grids are particularly susceptible to EMPs, and a significant EMP event could plunge entire cities or regions into darkness, potentially for an extended period.
2Communication BreakdownCell networks and internet service would go down with the grid and the long-line equipment behind them. Hand-held radios and other small devices that are not plugged into anything are far more likely to survive, which is why battery radios and GMRS handhelds are worth keeping. This would make it difficult for individuals to contact loved ones or receive updates on the situation.
3Transportation DisruptionsModern vehicles rely on electronic components for their operation. Testing suggests most vehicles would keep running or restart. EMP Commission staff testified that self-contained systems like vehicles tend not to be affected, and that effects are more often a temporary upset than burned-out parts. The bigger travel problems are dead traffic signals and fuel pumps. Public transportation systems, like subways or commuter trains, could also be affected.
4Banking and CommerceATMs and point-of-sale systems might fail, making it difficult to access money or conduct transactions. The disruption in electronic banking could lead to an immediate dependence on physical currency, barter, or other means of trade.
5Loss of Essential ServicesServices that rely on electricity, like water purification and sewage treatment, could stop. This could lead to sanitation and public health concerns.
6Medical ConcernsHospitals and medical facilities would be severely impacted, especially if backup power systems fail. Life-sustaining equipment might stop working, and essential medical supplies could run out.
7Food and Water ShortagesWith transportation and communication disrupted, the supply chain for food and other essentials would be severely impacted. Stores could run out of supplies quickly, and without refrigeration, perishable goods would spoil. Access to clean water might also become a significant concern.
8Breakdown of Law and OrderAs resources become scarce, and if the disruption continues for an extended period, there might be an increase in crime, looting, and civil unrest. Law enforcement agencies might be overwhelmed, and response times could increase.
9Dependency on Analog TechnologiesPeople might need to revert to older, non-electronic methods for tasks like communication, navigation, and entertainment. Think of using maps instead of GPS or reading physical books instead of e-readers.
10Psychological ImpactThe sudden and profound shift in daily life, coupled with uncertainty about the future, could have significant psychological impacts on many individuals, leading to stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges.
11Community RelianceOn the positive side, such events often see communities coming together. Neighbors might pool resources, share food, or take turns keeping watch. The inherent need for community and collaboration could become even more pronounced in these challenging times.

What you can do about it

You cannot stop an EMP. You can decide ahead of time which electronics survive it and how your household runs without the grid.

Build a Faraday-protected electronics kitA sling bag or a hard case with radios, power, a backup phone, and drives shielded and ready.Keep a backup laptop in a Faraday jacketYour files, maps, and manuals on a device that stays shielded.Plan for a long blackoutLoss of power is the first effect. Light, heat, water, and food with the grid down.Set up off-grid communicationRadios and plans that work when cell towers and the internet do not.

Questions this answers

Tap a question for the short answer.

What is an emp?

An EMP, or electromagnetic pulse, is a burst of electromagnetic energy that can disable electronic equipment, destroy power grids, and cripple communication networks. It can come from a high-altitude nuclear explosion, a non-nuclear pulse weapon, or a geomagnetic storm set off by a coronal mass ejection.

What causes an electromagnetic pulse?

There are three sources. A nuclear EMP comes from a high-altitude nuclear explosion, where gamma rays knock electrons loose from air molecules and Earth's magnetic field bends them into a fast pulse. Non-nuclear weapons pair conventional explosives with electrical devices. The natural version is a geomagnetic storm set off by a coronal mass ejection from the sun.

Can a solar flare cause an emp?

Not the flare itself. A solar flare is a burst of radiation that can black out radio for minutes to hours. A coronal mass ejection (CME) is a cloud of charged plasma that reaches Earth in one to three days and sets off a geomagnetic storm, which is the part that threatens the grid. The Carrington Event of 1859 is the historic example.

What would an emp do to the power grid?

An EMP can disrupt or permanently damage power grids, and a high-altitude nuclear pulse could do that across an entire continent. Because modern infrastructure is interconnected, the damage cascades into water treatment, transportation, and electronic banking, and recovery could take years.

Does the us government have a plan for an emp?

Yes. Congress established an EMP threat commission in 2001, and a 2019 executive order directed federal agencies to identify at-risk infrastructure and improve resilience. DHS and FEMA have response and recovery protocols, the military runs training exercises, and the government works with private utilities on hardening the grid.

What is the difference between a nuclear and non-nuclear emp?

A nuclear EMP comes from gamma rays released by a high-altitude nuclear explosion and can cover a vast area, potentially an entire continent. A non-nuclear EMP weapon uses conventional explosives combined with electrical devices, so its effect is localized and can target specific facilities without widespread collateral damage.

Keep going

Read nextFaraday-protected emergency electronics: the sling bag and the grab-and-go kitWhat to pack in an EMP-protected electronics kit, small or full: Faraday bags and jackets, a sling bag or hard case, power bank, solar panel, radios, backup phone and laptop, lights, drives, and cables.Power and Light · Guide

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