More than 30 local, state, and federal agencies are currently conducting a major radiological incident exercise in Austin this week according to a report from FOX 7 News.
The Cobalt Magnet 22 exercise, led by the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration in partnership with the Austin Homeland Security and Emergency Management Office (HSEM), brings numerous agencies together to ensure preparedness against radiological threats and is the culmination of 18 months of planning.
Taking place at various locations around the city May 16-20, the exercise will simulate a radiological attack, enabling response personnel to practice protecting public health and safety, providing emergency relief to affected populations, and restoring essential services, says the city.
According to KXAN, At the core of the operation is the Nuclear Emergency Support Team, a team specially trained to guide state and local leaders during a nuclear or radiological event.
The team will help local and state agencies make informed public health and safety decisions. Between May 16-20, you might spot field teams in protective clothing using radiological monitoring and detection equipment. Low-flying aircraft will also gather data, and first responders will be staged in various locations, NNSA said.
