The Doomsday Clock Is Now 85 Seconds to Midnight. Here's What That Means

""Every second of delay in reversing course," SABS members reported, "increases the likelihood of a global disaster.""

""The dangerous trends in nuclear risk, climate change, disruptive technologies like AI, and biosecurity are accompanied by another frightening development: the rise of nationalistic autocracies in countries around the world," said SABS president Daniel Holz in a statement."

""Our greatest challenges require international trust and cooperation, and a world splintering into 'us versus them' will leave all of humanity more vulnerable.""

The Doomsday Clock stands at 85 seconds to midnight, the closest point in nearly 80 years. Nuclear weapon dangers, disruptive technologies like artificial intelligence, multiple biosecurity concerns, and the persistent climate crisis are cited as primary drivers of the increased risk. Major powers including the United States, Russia, and China have intensified aggressive and nationalistic postures, increasing geopolitical instability. The rise of nationalistic autocracies undermines the international trust and cooperation needed to address global threats. Insufficient progress in regulating and reducing these risks has left humanity more vulnerable and increased the likelihood of a global disaster.

Read at WIRED