Publication Date
2015
Selected Works Department
School of Integrated Sciences
Document Type
Presentation
Abstract
The Commission to Assess the threat to the United States from Electromagnetic Pulse, on which I served as principal staff, made a compelling case for protecting critical infrastructure against the nuclear electromagnetic pulse (EMP) and geomagnetic disturbances (GMD) caused by severe solar storms. Their 2008 Critical Infrastructure Report explains EMP effects, consequences, and protection means for critical infrastructure sectors. EMP and GMD are particularly challenging in that they interfere with electrical power and electronic data, control, transmission, and communication systems organic to nearly all critical infrastructures. The affected geography may be continental in scale. EMP and GMD events thus represent a class of high-consequence disasters that is unique in its coverage, ubiquity, and simultaneous system debilitation. Such disasters deserve particular attention with regard to preparedness and recovery since assistance from non-affected regions of the nation could be scarce or nonexistent. The major point I want to make to Congress is that such disasters are preventable. We have the engineering know-how and tools to protect ourselves. What is lacking is resolve.
File Name
Baker045_FT
Recommended Citation
Baker, George, "Testimony before the House Committee on National Security and the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform" (2015). Selected Works. 119.
https://commons.lib.jmu.edu/selectedworks/119
