Lateral Blast
A lateral (sideways) explosion with a significant low-angle
component that is directed towards an area that can cover as much
as 180 degrees. Because they carry rock debris at high speeds,
lateral blasts can devastate areas tens to hundreds of square
kilometers within a few minutes, and they can destroy manmade
structures and kill all living things by abrasion, impact, burial,
and heat.
Glossary Terms