A near-Earth asteroid called Bennu is predicted to collide with Earth in September 2182, posing a significant threat to the planet. According to computer simulations, the impact would cause a global “impact winter” scenario, characterized by reduced sunlight, cold temperatures, and decreased precipitation.
The asteroid’s diameter is approximately 500 meters, and its impact would inject 100-400 million tons of dust into the atmosphere, disrupting climate patterns for three to four years. The resulting temperature decrease could reach as much as 7 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius), while average rainfall would fall by 15%.
A study published in Science Advances warns that the impact would also cause a significant depletion of the planet’s ozone layer, leading to severe climate conditions. While the study did not calculate the potential human death toll, experts acknowledge that an asteroid collision of this magnitude could lead to massive loss of life.
Scientists have been monitoring Bennu and are taking steps to prepare for its possible arrival. NASA’s robotic OSIRIS-REx spacecraft has collected samples from Bennu, providing valuable insights into the asteroid’s composition and potential risks.
The likelihood of a Bennu-sized asteroid striking Earth is small at 0.037%, but the potential impact would be severe and long-lasting. Experts emphasize the need to think about the risk and consider measures to mitigate its effects.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/science/scientists-predict-devastation-if-asteroid-bennu-strikes-earth-2182-2025-02-06