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HomeScienceScientists reveal cities at risk if 'city killer' asteroid 2024 YR4 hits Earth in 2032: Is your country on the list?

Scientists reveal cities at risk if 'city killer' asteroid 2024 YR4 hits Earth in 2032: Is your country on the list?

Scientists are monitoring a massive asteroid that could strike Earth. Experts have identified potential impact areas.

February 18, 2025 / 10:14 IST
Asteroid 2024 YR4 (Representative Image: Canva)

Asteroid 2024 YR4 (Representative Image: Canva)

Scientists are tracking a giant asteroid that might hit Earth. While the chances are low, experts have mapped possible impact zones. Countries in South America, Africa, and Asia are in the risk corridor. The asteroid could strike in December 2032.

Asteroid 2024 YR4’s Threat Level
NASA discovered asteroid 2024 YR4 and quickly listed it as risky. Scientists now say the chance of impact is about two percent. The asteroid is between 40 and 100 metres wide. If it hits, it could cause city-sized destruction. It travels at 38,000 mph and could pierce the Earth’s crust.

The European Space Agency predicts a possible impact on 22 December 2032. If it enters Earth's atmosphere, the damage could be immense. The risk corridor stretches across multiple continents, with exact impact sites unknown.

Read Also: Newly discovered asteroid with 100x Hiroshima bomb power may hit Earth in 2032—What are the odds of its collision?

Countries in the Possible Impact Zone
NASA’s risk corridor map highlights several nations in danger. These include India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Sudan, and Nigeria. South American countries like Venezuela, Colombia, and Ecuador are also listed. However, experts stress that panic is unnecessary. Scientists are constantly updating their calculations.

Plans to Prevent a Possible Impact
International agencies are exploring ways to divert the asteroid. Scientists suggest methods like kinetic impactors, solar lasers, or nuclear explosions. China has even announced planetary defence positions. Some experts believe nuclear deflection may be the best option. Scientists continue tracking the asteroid to ensure public safety.

first published: Feb 17, 2025 12:13 pm

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