A new study by Penn State scientists warns that nuclear war could lead to a “nuclear winter,” blocking sunlight and collapsing global agriculture. Simulations show that even a limited conflict could drastically cut crop yields, especially corn—the world’s most produced grain.

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• Nuclear war could cut global corn yields by up to 87%.
• Smoke, soot from firestorms block sunlight, cool planet for years.
• Freezing temperatures may last a decade, end growing seasons.
• Six war scenarios studied; worst releases 165M tons of soot.
• Northern Hemisphere could see subzero temps for months, years.
• UV-B radiation from ozone damage may cut yields further.
• Tropical areas may survive, but with only wild, low-yield foods.
• Scientists propose “agricultural resilience kits” with hardy seeds.
• Seed shortages, poor global coordination are major hurdles.
• Urges urgent global action to protect food systems from war, disaster.