Radiation Danger

[Handymansvs]

It is my understanding that on the site of the first atomic explosion that the surrounding area still emits too much radiation for humans to live without getting ill or dying.

How is it possible that the two site in Japan that were targets of atomic explosions to be populated?

[Buenchico]

There are many considerations to be taken into account here. (It's likely that more knowledgeable posters will be able to provide further information).

The most obvious difference in the explosions, however, is that the test explosions were carried out on land (resulting in radiological contamination of the surrounding area) whereas the bombs at Hiroshima and Nagasaki were detonated approximately half a mile above the ground. (This was done to produce the maximum 'fireball' effect).

Chris

[CT]

A friend of mine once told me that the areas the were bombed have been, essentially, concreted over. Thus reducing the radiation from the irradiated ground.

[qapmoc]

The background radiation level in the two cities is about normal now, see this for some info.

[I_cnat_splel]

if u get radiated, u will turn into a green giant!