Tensions between Iran, Israel, and the U.S. are stoking fears of a potential nuclear conflict. With these rising concerns, many Americans are wondering where to find the nearest nuclear fallout shelter. Though nuclear weapons haven’t been used since 1945, predictions and recent global events have heightened public anxiety.

During the Cold War, the U.S. built many fallout shelters, some of which still exist today. TruePrepper, a nuclear preparedness site run by Air Force veteran Sean Gold, offers an interactive map to help people locate these bunkers. However, many states—especially parts of Florida—now lack adequate shelter coverage.

The effectiveness of a nuclear bunker depends on several factors, including distance from the blast zone, structural integrity, and internal resources. Bunkers should be underground with thick walls, proper air filtration systems, and sufficient food and water supplies to sustain occupants for days or weeks.

While Washington D.C. has the highest concentration of shelters, its high-profile status makes it a prime target, reducing its overall safety. On the other hand, remote areas with fewer shelters may actually be safer if they’re far from direct impact or radiation zones.

Some speculate that secret underground cities exist for the elite, but these would likely be inaccessible to most people. In the absence of such options, the best preparation includes knowing the nearest shelter, understanding its limitations, and ensuring you have necessary supplies to survive.