San Francisco Bay Bridge just before detonation of an improvised nuclear device. (Artist's conception)
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Disclaimer
 he following scenario is designed to illustrate what could happen if terrorists were to use an
improvised nuclear device (IND)— basically, a "home-made" nuclear
explosive—to attack a major U.S. city. Because it is meant to show the overwhelming effects of a nuclear explosion, the description of destruction in this scenario might disturb some readers.
Introduction
The Martinez family is enjoying what began as a typical day in San Francisco. Kathleen Martinez is giving a presentation in a restaurant in a luxury hotel on Nob Hill. Joe Martinez is riding the BART subway to his job in the East Bay. Benny Martinez's class is taking a field trip to the Asian Art Museum. Lupe Martinez is taking a break from classes at the University
of California Extension Center across the street from the U.S. Mint.
This afternoon, their lives will be shattered, and the community they live in will be devastated, by a man-made disaster which will make even the 1906 earthquake seem moderate by comparison.
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