New Delhi: NASA scientists are increasingly concerned about asteroid 2024 YR4. The likelihood of a collision with Earth has risen from 1% to 2.3%. This growing risk is alarming, especially since its speed and exact size remain unknown. Scientists estimate it could be up to 200 meters wide.
If asteroid 2024 YR4 hits Earth, it could destroy entire cities. NASA predicts its impact could release energy more powerful than 500 atomic bombs. The potential impact zone includes several densely populated regions, including India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.
David Rankin from NASA’s Catalina Sky Survey has identified a risk corridor stretching from South America to the Pacific Ocean, southern Asia, the Arabian Sea, and sub-Saharan Africa. Countries at high risk include Ethiopia, Sudan, Nigeria, Venezuela, Colombia, and Ecuador.
Asteroid 2024 YR4 was first discovered in December 2024. Since then, its increasing collision probability has raised concerns at NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA). Scientists are now identifying potential impact sites to prepare in advance and minimize damage if a collision becomes inevitable.
