Not too many of us have been through a nuclear attack and despite the fact that there are warning systems in place we may not hear them or they may be knocked out. One thing that is not well known is that the official U.S. warning system can be knocked out by the electromagnetic force of a nuclear explosion. This means if the country was under attack that you may or may not hear a warning siren or warning horn blasts. You may not hear it at all because it would be a strategic military move to knock out communications systems and the power systems that run them first.
In an all out attack most people would see the sky light up with an astounding bright white lighted. Thunderous explosions might also be heard in the distance.
You might also actually see missiles and U.S military bombers pursuing them in the sky or actually witness an air battle.
Of course there would be complete power and communication failures also happening during this time. Surges in electromagnetic power would also damage all transmission lines and also personal equipment like cell phones or computer. Some motors would also be destroyed, especially if they used plastic components. This could mean that a vehicle or a power generator of some kind will no longer work.
It is also likely that your could witness the shattering of window glass and windshield glass. That is why it is best to take cover in a hallway or place in your home that is not near any windows or mirrors. If you hear a siren sound find the best available cover. Do not waste time trying to look out the window no matter how curious you are.
The nuclear explosion would not even have to hit the ground to do a lot of damage. Explosions in mid air can cause all power and all broadcasting stations to be knocked out.
If you are outside and the explosion is near enough you are at great risk of being burned. Be sure to get inside or into a shelter as soon as you can.
You should also avoid leaving your shelter even after a few hours have passed. Stay in until further notice. This is because even if missiles are missed or not deployed the U.S. military might be trying to detonate or destroy them somehow. Either way you could put yourself at risk for radiaton, burns or other injuries.