India, Feb. 20 -- The likelihood of a 'city-killer' asteroid impacting Earth in 2032 has risen to 1 in 32, or 3.1 per cent, according to latest threat perception by National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). A simulation illustrating the potential catastrophic consequences of such an impact has gone viral online.

The asteroid, designated 2024 YR4, is estimated to measure around 177 feet (54 metres) in diameter, which is about the size of a large building. While it is not large enough to wipe out humanity, it could still destroy a major city. Nonetheless, experts have stressed that there is no immediate cause for concern.

"Naturally, when you see the chances increase, it doesn't exactly make you feel comfortable," Bruce Betts,...