Mumbai & Kolkata on Path of Asteroid Nicknamed ‘City Killer’: Reports
In a chilling warning, scientists have predicted that two of India’s most populous cities, Mumbai and Kolkata, could be in the direct path of an asteroid nicknamed the “City Killer” if it were to hit Earth in 2032. The asteroid, officially known as 2024 YR4, has been making headlines lately due to its predicted trajectory, which puts several major cities, including Bogota in Colombia and Lagos in Nigeria, in its crosshairs.
According to reports, the asteroid is estimated to be around 1,100 feet (335 meters) in diameter, making it large enough to cause significant destruction upon impact. Scientists believe that if it were to hit Earth, it could trigger “severe blast damage” and affect a radius of approximately 31 miles (50 kilometers) around the impact site.
The predicted path of the asteroid has sent shockwaves through the scientific community, with experts warning that the consequences of a collision could be catastrophic. The asteroid’s trajectory is being closely monitored by astronomers and NASA, who are working tirelessly to predict the asteroid’s exact path and potential impact sites.
So, what does this mean for Mumbai and Kolkata, the two Indian cities whose residents are at risk of being affected by the “City Killer”? Let’s take a closer look at the situation and what experts are saying.
Why is Mumbai being linked to the ‘City Killer’ asteroid?
Mumbai, the financial capital of India, has been making headlines in recent days due to its proximity to the predicted path of the asteroid. According to a report by NDTV, the city’s geographical location and population density make it a prime target for the asteroid’s potential impact.
The report cites Dr. B. S. R. Prasad, a scientist at the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, who has been tracking the asteroid’s trajectory. Dr. Prasad believes that Mumbai’s location, situated near the western coast of India, puts it in the direct path of the asteroid’s predicted trajectory.
What would happen if the asteroid were to hit Mumbai?
If the asteroid were to hit Mumbai, the consequences would be devastating. Experts warn that the impact would release an enormous amount of energy, causing widespread destruction and loss of life.
The report by NDTV notes that the asteroid’s predicted impact zone in Mumbai would be approximately 31 miles (50 kilometers) in diameter, putting several million people at risk. The impact would also trigger a massive shockwave, causing buildings to collapse, and potentially leading to widespread chaos and panic.
Kolkata also in the asteroid’s predicted path
Kolkata, the cultural hub of India, is also on the predicted path of the asteroid. While the city is located on the eastern coast of India, its proximity to the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean makes it vulnerable to the asteroid’s potential impact.
According to reports, Kolkata’s densely populated areas, including its city center and major landmarks, would be at risk of being affected by the asteroid’s impact.
Other cities at risk
The asteroid’s predicted path also puts several other major cities in its crosshairs. Bogota, the capital of Colombia, and Lagos, the largest city in Nigeria, are both on the predicted trajectory, along with several other major urban centers.
What can be done to prevent a disaster?
While predicting the path of the asteroid is a complex task, scientists are working tirelessly to monitor its trajectory and provide early warnings to affected cities. NASA and other space agencies around the world are also working on developing technology to deflect or destroy asteroids that pose a threat to Earth.
In the meantime, experts are urging governments and citizens to take necessary precautions to ensure public safety. This includes conducting regular drills, developing emergency response plans, and educating the public on the risks associated with asteroid impacts.
Conclusion
The discovery of the “City Killer” asteroid has sent shockwaves through the scientific community, and its predicted path has raised concerns about the potential impact on several major cities, including Mumbai and Kolkata. While the situation is alarming, scientists are working hard to monitor the asteroid’s trajectory and provide early warnings to affected cities.
As the world waits with bated breath to see if the asteroid will indeed hit Earth, it is essential that governments and citizens come together to prepare for the worst-case scenario. By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, we can minimize the risk of disaster and ensure the safety of our communities.
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