The Collapse Chronicles – World War 3: Could the Next Global War Be Humanity’s Last?

Coby Coonradt
Sep 4
3 min read

When people think of world wars, they usually picture black-and-white newsreels of tanks rumbling across Europe or dogfights above the Pacific. But if World War 3 were to break out today, it wouldn’t look anything like the conflicts of the past. It would be faster, more complex, and potentially far more devastating.

In this episode of The Collapse Chronicles, we’re breaking down how a modern world war could unfold, what the triggers might be, and most importantly—what it would mean for everyday life at home.

💥 Why It Matters

Modern warfare moves at the speed of technology. Escalation that once took months could now happen in hours.

A single miscalculation between nuclear powers could be catastrophic.
Unlike the wars of the 20th century, this wouldn’t just play out on faraway battlefields—it would ripple directly into our power grids, grocery stores, and bank accounts.
For preppers, the takeaway is simple: World War 3 wouldn’t be a distant event. It would arrive at your doorstep.

🔎 What World War 3 Could Look Like

Global Alliances

A new world war wouldn’t be one nation versus another—it would be blocs of nations colliding. NATO and U.S. allies on one side, Russia, China, and Iran on the other. Wildcards like India, Turkey, or North Korea could swing the balance, while smaller regional conflicts add fuel to the fire.

Hybrid Warfare

Forget the opening shots being fired by soldiers crossing borders. The first strike would likely come online. Power grids could be hacked, pipelines sabotaged, satellites jammed, and social media flooded with disinformation. You could wake up one morning unable to pump gas, access your bank account, or even know what’s true anymore.

Weapons of Mass Destruction

Nuclear weapons remain the ultimate wildcard. Even a “limited” exchange—say, between India and Pakistan—would disrupt the entire world. Add in the possibilities of chemical or biological attacks, and the risk of rapid escalation becomes unavoidable.

Economic Warfare

Wars are no longer just about territory—they’re about resources. Nations could weaponize oil, natural gas, rare earth minerals, and shipping lanes. Grocery store shelves could be bare in weeks, fuel rationing could return, and inflation would skyrocket.

🔥 What Could Trigger World War 3?

Taiwan – A Chinese invasion attempt could draw in the U.S. and its allies, creating a direct clash of superpowers.
Ukraine – An accidental or deliberate Russian strike on a NATO country could invoke Article 5, forcing escalation.
Middle East – A widening war involving Israel and Iran would almost certainly pull in the U.S., Russia, and China.
Miscalculation – A single accident—like a downed aircraft or a cyberattack that spreads too far—could spiral out of control.

History shows we’ve been close before: the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, Able Archer 83, and other near-misses prove how fragile peace can be.

🧰 How Preppers Should Respond

Preparing for World War 3 isn’t about stockpiling for doomsday—it’s about being ready for the ripple effects. Here’s what to focus on:

Food & Water: At least 60–90 days, plus purification backups.
Cash & Documents: Keep small bills and copies of critical papers in waterproof storage.
Comms: Battery-powered or hand-crank radios, walkie-talkies, or ham radio gear.
Security: Self-defense tools, home hardening, and non-lethal options.
Nuclear/EMP Prep: Potassium iodide, Faraday cage for electronics, NBC-rated masks.
Medical & Gear: Trauma kits, OTC meds, generators, solar panels.
Skills & Community: Gardening, repair, wilderness survival, and strong alliances with neighbors.

Remember: You don’t need a mushroom cloud to feel the impact of a world war. Supply chain collapse, cyberattacks, or economic warfare could change life overnight.

🎯 Listener Challenge

This week, put together a 72-Hour Conflict Kit for your family. Include food, water, comms gear, and medical basics—then add at least one nuclear-specific item, like potassium iodide tablets or an NBC-rated mask.

Final Thoughts

Could World War 3 really happen? Most experts say a full-scale global war is unlikely—but the risk is always there. And even if the world avoids all-out conflict, the economic and social shockwaves of modern proxy wars prove just how fragile our systems really are.

For preppers, the message is clear: Hope for peace, but prepare like tomorrow morning’s headlines could change everything.