[21twelve]

I just did some scrambling to figure out if I should run down to Walgreens at 1:35 am Seattle time. I am only basing it on Chernobyl - not sure if this Japanese reactor will be worse (more fuel rods I guess) or not (different type of design).

Anyway - at Chernobyl, ill effects of radioactive iodine extended to 200 to 300 miles or so. At least based on the one fairly scientific paper I read. With Seattle being over 4500 miles away - I think I’ll call it a night instead and not worry about it. Although - it could hurt to have it on hand.

I have a hypothyroid already (not working!), and it looked like use of KI in kids (like mine) can also cause it if you overdose. If mine runs in the family, I don’t want to make it worse by giving them KI. It sounds like KI is readily absorbed, so maybe I WILL buy some “just in case”. Although I imagine that 4500 miles is a HUGE buffer.

I recall in the little bit of rad training I took they made a point of saying not to freak out, but stop, note the measurement, and then back off from a hot zone. Time (well, a short time) and distance are your friend.

[Springfield Reformer]

Absolutely. And you can bet that your top state emergency management people are watching this and will advise the public if any precautions become necessary. The people I work with here in Illinois are top notch and this is what they live for. No point in putting yourself at risk for no good reason.

[Windflier]

With Seattle being over 4500 miles away - I think I’ll call it a night instead and not worry about it.

I think that's a reasonable, and level-headed response. The worst thing folks can do right now, is to start panicking. Even worse, is to start a stampede of panic, like some seem to be doing.

We'll know a lot more about all this tomorrow. We'll also be inundated with the screams of Chicken Littles, so keep your head screwed on straight.

[grey_whiskers]

Although I imagine that 4500 miles is a HUGE buffer.

Figure dilution AND the path of the prevailing wind currents, too.