What was one consequence of the Three Mile Island accident?

The evacuation of preschool children and pregnant women was a consequence of the Three Mile Island accident due to the heightened concern for vulnerable populations during the nuclear incident. The event on March 28, 1979, resulted in a partial meltdown at the plant, which raised alarms about potential exposure to radiation. Authorities prioritized the safety of those who could be most affected by radiation, as children and pregnant women are particularly sensitive to radiation and its associated health risks. This precautionary measure was deemed necessary to protect these high-risk groups in the immediate vicinity of the plant.

The other options are less reflective of the actual outcomes of the incident. While the accident caused significant public concern and scrutiny regarding nuclear safety, it did not lead to the total evacuation of all local residents or the shutdown of all nearby power plants. Additionally, the establishment of nuclear waste disposal sites is a separate issue related to the long-term management of nuclear waste, which is not directly tied to the immediate consequences of the accident.