An asteroid named 2024 YR4 is expected to come very close to Earth in 2032. According to astronomers, major Indian cities like Mumbai and Kolkata could be at risk if it impacts. The asteroid, which is 130 to 300 feet long, will pass dangerously close to our planet.

Which areas are at risk?

Based on the asteroid’s estimated trajectory, several Indian states may be affected if it collides with Earth. These states include Maharashtra, Northern Telangana, Southern Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Jharkhand, and West Bengal. Apart from India, other possible impact locations include Bogotá (Colombia) and Lagos (Nigeria).

Although much of the asteroid’s path is over the ocean, scientists say it could cause severe damage if it crashes into a populated area. The destruction depends on factors such as entry angle, speed, and atmospheric effects.

How dangerous is the asteroid?

NASA has lowered the probability of the asteroid hitting Earth to just 1.5%, meaning it is highly unlikely to make contact. However, if it does, it could cause massive destruction. The asteroid is expected to travel at a speed of 40,000 miles per hour, generating an explosion 500 times more powerful than the Hiroshima bomb, which could wipe out an entire city.

The asteroid is believed to be stony in nature, meaning it is likely to break into smaller pieces as it enters Earth’s atmosphere. While this could reduce the overall impact, it would still be powerful enough to cause damage.

NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA) are closely tracking the asteroid’s movements. The asteroid was first discovered on December 27, 2023, by Chile’s El Sauce Observatory, and experts are continuing to monitor its path. Although the risk is very low, scientists are keeping a close watch to ensure Earth’s safety.

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