An asteroid half the size of a football field has a 1-in-83 chance of hitting Earth in 2032

Asteroid 2024 YR4 was identified by the Catalina Sky Survey and has a 1.2% chance of hitting Earth, with a concerning rating on the Torino risk scale. It could generate an explosion of 12 megatons of TNT if it impacts, affecting a potential site like New York, and cause widespread damage affecting millions.

NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory notes there are six possible impact events for Asteroid 2024 YR4 between 2032 and 2074. The highest likelihood for an impact event is set for December 22, 2032. Although its level three rating poses a threat, further telescopic observations might reassess the risk down to level zero.

EarthSky highlights that only asteroid 99942 Apophis had a higher score at one point on the Torino scale, but later fell to zero. Asteroid 2024 YR4's trajectory suggests significant impacts if not reevaluated, though historical precedents imply future observations could reduce perceived risks.