This sounds like it was ripped from a third-rate sci-fi movie...but it's real. A so-called "city-destroying" asteroid may reportedly be on its way towards Earth. One NASA expert is predicting where it could land. David Rankin has pinpointed a "risk corridor" where the asteroid, named 2024 YR4, could make itself felt on our planet many years from now.
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According to dailymail.co.uk, "If 2024 YR4 really does hit Earth in 2032, it should fall somewhere in a narrow band stretching from northern South America across the Pacific to sub-Saharan Africa and into Asia." This region is heavily populated, so there is some concern.
We know a few facts about this asteroid. It was first spotted right after Christmas last year and it measures from 130 to 300 feet. This outer-space object is around the size of the Statue of Liberty.
The Good News Is That The Asteroid Isn't Thought To Be Hitting Earth Anytime Soon
NASA believes that a 2.1 per cent chance of the asteroid colliding with Earth exists. If that does happen, it would not be until December 22, 2032. But here is the scary part. Per the outlet, "If it were to strike, experts suggest it could unleash a blast equal to eight megatons of TNT - more than 500 times the size of the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima."
That would potentially result in massive structural damage and countless casualties as well.
At Least Two Agencies Are Keeping An Eye On It
NASA, along with the European Space Agency, has been keeping tabs on this asteroid. Both agencies plan to use telescopes to enhance their knowledge of the asteroid. They seem to be taking this seriously. It merited an unusual three rating on a scale used to calibrate the risk posed by asteroids. Only one other asteroid ever got this rating or higher.
There Is A List Of Nations That Are Considered Most At Risk From The Asteroid
Per the outlet and Dr. Rankin's predictions,, these countries might be most at risk - "India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Sudan, Nigeria, Venezuela, Colombia, and Ecuador." It's reassuring to know that as more is discovered about the asteroid, however, the likelihood of its destructive effect on Earth will probably decrease.
