// Risk Intelligence
| Risk Score | 7 / 10 High |
| Facility Type | ☢ Nuclear Power Plant |
| Operator / Branch | Exelon Generation |
| Host County | Will County IL |
| Nearest City | Washington DC |
| Primary Risk Radius | 10 miles |
| Secondary Risk Radius | 50 miles |
// Strategic Significance
Illinois has more nuclear power plants than any other state — 11 reactors at 6 sites. Braidwood in Will County southwest of Chicago supplies power to the Chicago metro area and is part of Exelon's massive Midwest nuclear fleet. Illinois generates approximately 54% of its electricity from nuclear power — the highest percentage of any state — making nuclear plant safety critical to state energy security.
// Civilian Impact Assessment
The 50-mile ingestion zone from Braidwood extends into the Chicago metropolitan area encompassing millions of residents. Will County is one of the fastest-growing counties in Illinois with major suburban development continuing near the plant. Chicago's position in the 50-mile zone means a major incident would require food and water precautions for millions of urban residents.
// Evacuation & Shelter Guidance
10-mile EPZ: Evacuate via I-55 North toward Chicago or I-55 South away from metro. Monitor Illinois Emergency Management Agency broadcasts. 50-mile zone: Chicago area residents avoid locally grown produce from northern Illinois. Monitor IEMA guidance for food and water restrictions. Braidwood Lake used for cooling — avoid lake activities during any alert.
// Recommended Preparedness Gear
Essential preparedness items for residents within the 10-mile risk zone of Braidwood Nuclear Generating Station IL.
72-Hour Emergency Food Kit View on Amazon → Water Filtration System View on Amazon → Portable Generator View on Amazon →* ThreatMap USA participates in the Amazon Associates Program.