VIDEO Fukushima Hot Particles From Japan to Seattle Virtually Undetectable when Inhaled or Swallowed

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Fukushima Hot Particles From Japan to Seattle Virtually Undetectable when Inhaled or Swallowed In this video, Ary Gunderson from Fairwinds discusses critical updates regarding the Fukushima disaster, particularly focusing on the newly recalculated estimates for radiation release by Tokyo Electric. It has been determined that the initial release of radiation was twice what was previously thought, predominantly comprising "hot particles" – dangerous radioactive elements that are very difficult to detect.

Key Points Discussed in the Video:​

• Radiation Estimates: Tokyo Electric has increased their estimate of radiation released during the first week of the Fukushima incident. This reveals a significant underestimation of the potential environmental impact.
• Understanding Hot Particles: Gunderson explains that hot particles, made up of elements such as cesium, strontium, and plutonium, are not easily detectable with standard radiation detectors unless they are present in large quantities. Unlike noble gases, which can be monitored immediately for their gamma radiation, hot particles pose a silent threat as they settle in human tissues, particularly in the lungs and intestines.
• Impact on Human Health: The implications of inhaling such particles are grave, with daily exposure resulting in localized damage that can lead to cancer. Studies suggest that individuals in Tokyo may inhale about 10 hot particles daily, with even higher rates in Fukushima.
• International Observations: Alarmingly, air filters in Seattle have shown that residents there were breathing in an average of five hot particles daily during April, indicating that the fallout from Fukushima reached the U.S.
• Anecdotal Evidence of Radiation Effects: Gunderson mentions reports from Japan of a metallic taste, which has been previously documented during other nuclear incidents, as an indicator of radiation exposure.
  

  Next Steps and Engaging with the Community​

  For those interested, Gunderson will be discussing further implications of the Fukushima disaster on June 16th at the Boston Public Library. This event, featuring experts from related fields, is an opportunity for deeper understanding. Questions for the Community:
• Have any of you been following updates on Fukushima since the incident? What are your thoughts on the implications for health and environmental safety?
• How do you perceive the handling of nuclear safety and communication from governing bodies since the incident? Let’s keep the discussion going! Share your thoughts and experiences related to nuclear energy in our community.