In the past, preppers were often viewed as conspiracy theorists or doomsday alarmists, stockpiling supplies in anticipation of catastrophic events that many believed were far-fetched. However, the release of "Lights Out" by respected journalist Ted Koppel significantly changed this perception for many. Koppel, a seasoned journalist known for his tenure as anchor of ABC’s "Nightline," brings a sense of urgency and credibility to the conversation about the vulnerabilities of our nation’s power grid.
Key Points from "Lights Out"
"Lights Out" delves deep into the terrifying possibility of a cyberattack or an electromagnetic pulse (EMP) event that could potentially cripple our nation's power infrastructure. EMPs are often associated with intentional attacks using high-altitude nuclear detonations that can permanently damage electronic systems. Koppel highlights the following critical aspects:
The Fragility of Our Power Grids
The United States' power grid is divided into three interconnected networks: the Eastern Grid, the Western Grid, and the Texas Grid. These grids are the backbone of the country's electricity supply, but they are far more fragile than most people realize. Koppel's research reveals that these grids are not only aging but also highly vulnerable to cyberattacks. The interconnected nature of the grid means that a significant disruption in one area could have cascading effects nationwide.
Koppel's investigation reveals that a major cyberattack on America’s power grid is not only possible but likely, and it would be devastating. Imagine a blackout lasting not days or weeks, but months, affecting tens of millions of people across most of the nation. For those without access to a generator, there would be no running water, no sewage, no refrigeration, or light. Food and medical supplies would dwindle, and devices we rely on would go dark. Banks would cease to function, looting would be widespread, and law and order would be tested as never before. Imagine our modern society immediately being thrown back in time to the 1800s. The consequences would be catastrophic.
The Threat of Cyberattacks and EMPs
Koppel discusses the ever-present threat of cyberattacks from hostile nations or terrorist groups. The book explains how our critical infrastructure, including power plants and transmission networks, is increasingly controlled by digital systems that can be hacked. A successful cyberattack could shut down large portions of the grid, leaving millions without power.
Moreover, the book covers the chilling possibility of an EMP attack, where a nuclear device detonated at high altitude could produce an electromagnetic pulse that fries electronic circuits over a vast area. The government’s own EMP commission study in 2004 concluded that a major EMP attack on our nation’s grid could result in up to 90% of Americans dying within the first year due to the collapse of critical infrastructure, such as food, water, and medical supplies.
In the age of cyberwarfare, a laptop has become the only necessary weapon to cripple much of our infrastructure. Several nations hostile to the United States could launch such an assault at any time. In fact, as a former chief scientist of the NSA reveals, China and Russia have already penetrated the grid. A cybersecurity advisor to President Obama believes that independent actors—from “hacktivists” to terrorists—have the capability as well. “It’s not a question of if,” says Centcom Commander General Lloyd Austin, “it’s a question of when.”
Government and Public Unpreparedness
One of the most shocking revelations in "Lights Out" is the extent to which the government and public are unprepared for such a catastrophe. Despite warnings from various experts and commission reports, there has been insufficient action to bolster the grid's defenses or prepare for the aftermath of a large-scale blackout. Koppel criticizes the lack of comprehensive planning and the over-reliance on the assumption that the grid will always be there.
When Koppel asked Secretary Johnson of Homeland Security about preparedness, he mentioned the lack of a comprehensive plan, indicating a concerning gap in readiness. The Secretary suggested keeping a battery-powered radio, a starkly insufficient measure given the scale of the potential threat.
Foreign Infiltration and Cyber Time Bombs
Ted Koppel's investigation reports that countries like China and Russia have already infiltrated the United States' power grid systems to some extent. Koppel quotes a four-star general who indicates that these countries possess cyber capabilities and potentially have "cyber time bombs" within the grid that could be activated at a time of their choosing. While there may be suspicions or evidence of cyber espionage activities, the full scope of foreign involvement in the power grid is often classified and subject to ongoing monitoring and analysis by cybersecurity experts and government agencies.
Cyberattacks are extremely difficult to trace, making it challenging to determine the responsible party. Our best experts may not be able to even determine who is responsible for weeks or months on end due to the sophisticated and elaborate methods that cyber attackers use to hide themselves.
The Real Threat of a Nuclear EMP Attack
Skeptics would argue that our nuclear deterrence prevents the threat of a nuclear EMP attack. However, experts point out that a well-funded terrorist group could acquire a nuclear missile from a country such as North Korea, and launch it from a shipping container on a cargo ship enroute to the United States as an example.
Personal and Community Preparedness
"Lights Out" underscores the importance of personal and community preparedness. Koppel suggests that while systemic changes are necessary, individuals and communities should also take steps to prepare for potential disruptions. This includes having emergency supplies, such as food, water, and medical kits, as well as developing local networks to support each other in times of crisis.
In the absence of a government plan, some individuals and communities have taken matters into their own hands. For example, we see the unrivaled disaster preparedness of the Mormon church, with its enormous storehouses of canned food, high-tech dairies, orchards, and proprietary trucking company—the fruits of a long tradition of anticipating the worst. But how, Koppel asks, will ordinary civilians survive?
Conclusion
Ted Koppel's "Lights Out" is a sobering wake-up call that underscores the importance of taking the threat to our power grid seriously. It dispels the myth that preppers are simply alarmists and instead presents a well-researched, credible argument for why everyone should take steps to prepare for potential disasters. The book highlights the fragility of our critical infrastructure and the dire consequences of inaction. In a world where cyber threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated, Koppel's work serves as a crucial reminder of the need for vigilance and preparedness.