Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) events have long been a staple in disaster and action films, captivating audiences with visions of sudden societal collapse and technological blackouts. While these movies are undeniably thrilling, they often prioritize dramatic effect over scientific accuracy, leading to dangerous misconceptions about EMPs and their real-world implications. For preppers and those interested in emergency preparedness, understanding the difference between Hollywood’s portrayal and actual EMP threats is crucial. Let’s dive into some popular EMP-themed movies, dissect their inaccuracies, and provide insights based on real-life EMP survival knowledge.
Misleading Depictions in Popular EMP Movies
The Darkest Hour (2011)
Synopsis: This sci-fi thriller centers around an EMP attack launched from the Moon, aiming to wipe out all electronic devices on Earth. The plot follows a group of survivors navigating the ensuing chaos.
Misconceptions:
- Source of EMP: In reality, EMPs are typically associated with nuclear detonations, solar flares, or specialized non-nuclear EMP weapons. The idea of an EMP originating from the Moon is purely fictional and lacks any scientific foundation.
- Immediate Global Blackout: While a high-altitude nuclear EMP could affect vast areas, the film exaggerates the immediacy and uniformity of the blackout, ignoring the varying susceptibilities of different regions and technologies.
Red Dawn (1984 & 2012)
Synopsis: Both versions of “Red Dawn” depict an EMP attack as part of a larger invasion strategy by foreign powers, leading to the collapse of American infrastructure and society.
Misconceptions:
- EMP as a Sole Cause of Collapse: The films suggest that an EMP alone can dismantle a nation’s infrastructure. While an EMP can disrupt electronics and power grids, modern systems’ resilience and redundancy would prevent total collapse.
- Functioning of Vehicles and Electronics Post-EMP: Contrary to the movie’s portrayal, most modern vehicles rely heavily on electronic systems that a significant EMP event would likely disable. The ease with which characters find and use working vehicles is unrealistic.
Threads (1984)
Synopsis: This British television drama portrays the effects of a nuclear war on the city of Sheffield, including the use of EMPs to cripple the UK.
Misconceptions:
- Comprehensive EMP Effects: While “Threads” provides a grim view of nuclear war, its depiction of EMP effects is oversimplified. The film shows widespread electronic failure, but in reality, the impact of an EMP would depend on factors like the altitude of detonation and shielding of electronic devices.
- Long-Term Recovery: The movie implies a prolonged and almost insurmountable struggle to rebuild, whereas actual recovery efforts post-EMP would vary based on preparedness and the extent of the damage.
Live Free or Die Hard (2007)
Synopsis: The fourth installment of the “Die Hard” series features a cyber-terrorist attack that includes the use of EMP devices to disable the United States’ infrastructure.
Misconceptions:
- EMP Deployment and Control: The film portrays EMPs being deployed with pinpoint accuracy and control, whereas real EMPs, especially those from high-altitude nuclear detonations, have broader and less predictable effects.
- Instantaneous Chaos: While the movie shows immediate chaos and widespread failure, the real-world impact would depend on the strength and scope of the EMP, as well as the existing infrastructure’s resilience.
Common Hollywood EMP Fallacies
Vehicles Still Operational
Many EMP movies showcase cars, trucks, and even high-tech vehicles continuing to function seamlessly after an EMP event. In reality, most modern vehicles are highly dependent on electronic systems controlled by microchips, which would be vulnerable to EMP-induced damage.
Older vehicles with minimal electronic components might have a better chance of surviving an EMP, but the widespread use of electronics in transportation makes the Hollywood depiction largely inaccurate.
Electronics and Appliances Surviving
From smartphones to refrigerators, movies often show electronic devices remaining operational or easily repairable post-EMP. The truth is that a significant EMP would likely fry most unshielded electronics, rendering them useless. Backup generators and solar-powered devices could offer some resilience, but the instant recovery portrayed on screen is misleading. A good alternative would be if you can assemble your own generator. You can use the blueprint for this alternative solution called the Modular Backyard Power Plant, and you’ll have a reliable 24/7 power source.
Instantaneous Societal Breakdown
While an EMP could cause significant disruptions, leading to challenges in communication, transportation, and power, movies tend to exaggerate the speed and extent of societal collapse.
Realistically, the impact would vary based on the EMP’s strength, geographic scope, and the preparedness of the affected population. While sustained outages would definitely cause a breakdown of society, it’s often not as sudden as Hollywood depicts.
Real-Life EMP Survival Knowledge
Understanding the true effects of an EMP is essential for effective preparedness. To safeguard against an EMP event, preppers should focus on several key strategies grounded in scientific research and practical application.
Shielding and Protection
Utilizing Faraday cages made from conductive materials can block electromagnetic fields and protect critical electronics.
Related: 5 Vehicles That Can Handle An EMP Attack
Whether using commercial options or homemade metal containers with sealed seams, ensuring proper grounding is crucial. Additionally, installing surge protectors can shield sensitive devices from voltage spikes caused by EMPs.
Backup Power Solutions
Investing in EMP-resistant generators stored in Faraday cages and connected with shielded cables ensures they remain operational.
Solar power systems should have critical components like inverters and batteries protected within EMP-rated enclosures. High-capacity battery banks stored in shielded containers can also provide power for essential devices during an EMP event. The DIY generator I mentioned above is another good solution that you can use in any type of crisis.
Vehicle Preparedness
Older vehicles, especially those made before the 1980s with fewer electronic parts, are more likely to survive an EMP. Keeping such vehicles in good condition and storing spare parts can be invaluable. For modern vehicles, installing EMP protection devices like surge protectors and shielding critical components enhances resilience. Regular maintenance ensures mechanical parts remain functional even if electronics fail.
Redundant Communication Methods
Ham radios are reliable as they do not depend on the internet or cellular networks. Investing in a quality ham radio setup with backup power sources ensures communication capability. You can also try this method that will help you communicate off-grid in this kind of crisis.
CB and shortwave radios offer additional options that are simple and durable. Protecting satellite phones in Faraday cages can help maintain their functionality, though they remain more vulnerable.
Stockpiling Essential Supplies
Maintain at least a two-week supply of non-perishable food and clean water per person. A comprehensive first aid kit, prescription medications, and essential medical tools are crucial for addressing health issues when medical services may be unavailable. Basic tools, manual can openers, and sanitation supplies support daily living and repairs without relying on electronics. Safely storing fuel for generators and vehicles, along with manual alternatives for cooking and heating, further enhances preparedness.
Infrastructure Resilience
Installing surge protectors on critical circuits and using Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) for essential devices can prevent damage and provide short-term power backup.
Implementing redundant systems, such as multiple power sources and communication lines, ensures functionality if one system fails. Here are 7 actions you should take immediately following an EMP strike to make sure you’re going to be doing more than just barely surviving.
Collaborating with neighbors to develop collective preparedness plans and share resources fosters a stronger community response.
Protecting Critical Documents and Data
Store digital copies of essential documents on EMP-protected devices, such as SSDs in Faraday cages, and utilize cloud storage with access plans that don’t rely on local infrastructure. Keep physical copies of vital documents like IDs, medical records, and financial information in waterproof and fireproof containers for secure access even when digital systems fail.
The problem is that Faraday cages are not always the most reliable. That’s why I wish more people knew about the EMP Cloth. Developed after extensive research by top U.S. scientists, this cloth offers 98% military-grade protection against electromagnetic waves. From credit cards to generators, fridges, and even cars, it covers everything you need.
They don’t restock them often because they’re pretty tough to make, so I had to wait a bit to finally get one. After hunting around, I found a reliable website to order it from. I recommend you secure your own cloth from here. It’s a rare find and not many people get to own it, which is a shame.
Financial Preparedness
Keep a reserve of cash in small denominations to facilitate transactions when digital payments are unavailable.
Stockpiling barter goods like food, water, medical supplies, and tools provides alternative means of obtaining necessary items.
Investing in precious metals like gold and silver offers a portable and durable store of value useful during currency disruptions.
Final Thoughts
While EMP-themed movies like “The Darkest Hour,” “Red Dawn,” “Live Free or Die Hard,” and others offer captivating narratives, they often distort the realities of EMP events, fostering misconceptions that can hinder effective preparedness. By distinguishing between Hollywood fiction and scientific fact, preppers can better equip themselves to handle the true challenges posed by EMPs.
Emphasizing realistic strategies—such as shielding electronics, maintaining older vehicles, securing alternative power and communication methods, and building comprehensive stockpiles—ensures a more resilient and informed approach to EMP survival. Additionally, investing in infrastructure resilience, education, and financial preparedness further strengthens one’s ability to navigate potential EMP scenarios effectively.
Understanding the nuances of EMP threats beyond their cinematic portrayals empowers individuals and communities to develop robust preparedness plans. By critically evaluating how EMPs are depicted in media and aligning preparedness efforts with real-world knowledge, preppers can face potential EMP scenarios with greater confidence and efficacy.
You may also like:
16 Remedies for Radiation Exposure
The EMP-Proof Shelter You Need to Build Before It’s Too Late (Video)
Never Store These Survival Items in Your Car
These Bushcraft Items Will Disappear First in a Crisis
I want to know what in my case, I don’t have any neighbors for a few miles plus I don’t know even their names. So it’s just me actually prepping anything because other than buying some ammo my husband thinks I’m crazy. But l keep plugging along. I have 2 trucks. A Polaris, a 1993 F-350 old rv, a motorcycle, an old tractor made in the late 50’s to 1960, and other than the tractor it’s all got the components to fail in an emp. So on that note what do I do without neighbors or vehicles? The emp cloth covers are to expensive.