‘One second closer to doom’: Why scientists says 2025 is humanity’s most dangerous year

Produced by: Manoj Kumar

Seconds Lost

The Doomsday Clock now stands at 89 seconds to midnight, the closest in its 78-year history, marking humanity’s failure to address escalating global threats.

Tipping Point

The Bulletin of Atomic Scientists cited nuclear war risks, climate disasters, AI threats, and pandemics as reasons for moving the clock forward by one second.

Nuclear Gamble

Russia’s continued aggression in Ukraine, growing tensions in Taiwan and the Middle East, and nuclear posturing have raised concerns about an impending catastrophe.

Climate Collapse

2024 was the hottest year ever recorded, with wildfires, floods, and extreme heat proving that global efforts to combat climate change remain inadequate.

AI’s Dark Side

Rapid advancements in artificial intelligence have fueled fears of military applications, misinformation, and destabilization, adding to the world’s precarious situation.

Silent Killers

Scientists warned of a looming bird flu pandemic, alongside biosecurity threats that could spiral out of control if left unchecked by global health organizations.

Failed Leadership

The lack of global cooperation, shifting policies, and increasing geopolitical instability have only heightened risks, with no clear solutions in sight.

A Dangerous Signal

Physicist Daniel Holz of the University of Chicago called the update “a warning to all world leaders,” urging immediate action before irreversible damage occurs.

A Frightening Future

The Doomsday Clock update serves as a reminder of humanity’s vulnerability—without decisive action, we edge even closer to global catastrophe.