Asteroid Impact

Whilst planets such as Jupiter can cope with a bombardment of large asteroids, such an event would be catastrophic for Earth. Ocean impacts could cause tidal waves over a mile high, engulfing coastal towns and cities. Other effects might include 400mph winds, sending objects flying at the speed of sound, and boiling temperatures sparking spontaneous fires.

Thankfully, scientists are constantly studying the skies in an attempt to track potentially threatening asteroids, the theory being that they could be intercepted and destroyed, saving the world from impending doom. At least the boffins are safe in the knowledge that, if a plan fails miserably, there will be nobody left to point the finger of blame...