The atomic explosion created the super-high
pressure of
several hundred thousand atmospheres.
The
surrounding
air expanded enormously,generating a powerful
blast.
The blast comprised a shock wave
(the
leading edge
moving at supersonic speed)and the
blast
wind that fol-
lowed it. Approximately 10 seconds
after
detonation, the
blast had traveled 3.7 kilmeters. The
pressure
was im-
mense, 15 tons per square meter as
far away
as 500
meters from the hypocenter.
When the blast subsided, the air
pressure
in the center
area was extremely low, and air rushed
back
from sur-
rounding areas toward the point of
explosion.
In the area from the hypocenter out
to
a 2-kilometer
radius, wooden structures were mostly
destroyed.
Though
ferro-concrete structures remained
standing,
they were
severely damaged, all windows shattered,
interiors com-
pletely gutted by fire.
Many people were knocked unconscious
and
injured
when lifted and blown through the air.
Others
were crushed
under collapsing buildings.
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