Mumbai & Kolkata on path of asteroid nicknamed ‘City Killer’: Reports
Reports have emerged suggesting that Mumbai and Kolkata, two of India’s most populous cities, could be in the path of a potentially devastating asteroid nicknamed the “City Killer”. According to scientists, Asteroid 2024 YR4, which has been dubbed the “City Killer”, is expected to make a close approach to Earth in 2032, with a predicted path that could put these two major cities at risk.
The asteroid, which measures approximately 1,000 feet in diameter, is considered a potentially hazardous asteroid (PHA) due to its size and proximity to Earth’s orbit. If it were to hit our planet, the consequences could be catastrophic, with scientists warning of “severe blast damage” affecting an area of approximately 31 miles from the impact site.
The predicted path of the asteroid has raised concerns among scientists and officials, with many scrambling to understand the potential risks and implications of a potential impact. As the world waits with bated breath for further updates on the asteroid’s trajectory, it’s essential to understand the facts and what we can do to prepare for this potential threat.
What is Asteroid 2024 YR4?
Asteroid 2024 YR4 is a near-Earth asteroid that was first discovered in 2024. Since then, scientists have been monitoring its orbit and trajectory, using data from various space agencies and observatories around the world. The asteroid is classified as a PHA due to its size and proximity to Earth’s orbit, making it a potential threat to our planet.
Why is it nicknamed the ‘City Killer’?
The nickname “City Killer” has been given to Asteroid 2024 YR4 due to its predicted path and potential impact on densely populated areas. If the asteroid were to hit Earth, it could cause widespread destruction and loss of life, particularly in cities with high population densities.
Why are Mumbai and Kolkata at risk?
According to reports, Mumbai and Kolkata are among the cities that could be impacted if Asteroid 2024 YR4 hits Earth in 2032. The predicted path of the asteroid puts these two major cities at risk of severe blast damage, which could affect a significant portion of their populations.
Other cities that could be impacted by the asteroid’s predicted path include Bogota in Colombia and Lagos in Nigeria, both of which are also densely populated areas with significant urban populations.
What are the potential consequences of an impact?
If Asteroid 2024 YR4 were to hit Earth, the consequences could be catastrophic. Scientists have warned of “severe blast damage” affecting an area of approximately 31 miles from the impact site, with the potential for widespread destruction and loss of life.
The impact could also cause massive destruction to infrastructure, including buildings, roads, and bridges, as well as disrupting global supply chains and economies. In addition, the asteroid’s impact could also release large amounts of toxic chemicals and debris into the atmosphere, potentially affecting global weather patterns and causing long-term environmental damage.
What can be done to prepare for this potential threat?
While the predicted path of Asteroid 2024 YR4 is still uncertain, scientists and officials are taking steps to prepare for this potential threat. Some of the measures being taken include:
- Continuing to monitor the asteroid’s orbit and trajectory using data from space agencies and observatories around the world.
- Conducting simulations and modeling exercises to predict the potential impact of the asteroid and the consequences of an impact.
- Developing emergency response plans and evacuation procedures for affected areas.
- Conducting public awareness campaigns to educate people about the potential risks and implications of an asteroid impact.
As the world waits with bated breath for further updates on the asteroid’s trajectory, it’s essential to remain vigilant and prepared for this potential threat. By continuing to monitor the asteroid’s orbit and taking steps to prepare for a potential impact, we can minimize the risks and consequences of an asteroid impact.
