Doomsday Clock Set at Closest Point to Midnight Since Its Creation
January 28, 2026 • Google News World
Scientists Set New Time for Doomsday Clock
The Doomsday Clock, a symbolic representation of the threat of human extinction, has been set at 85 seconds to midnight. This is the closest the clock has ever been to its midnight mark, which represents global catastrophe.
According to experts, the clock’s new time is due to concerns over climate change and the development of artificial intelligence (AI). The clock’s maintenance team, known as the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, releases an annual report outlining the current state of these threats.
The 2026 Doomsday Clock report states that the world is facing significant challenges. Climate change continues to pose a threat to global stability, while AI development raises concerns about job displacement and potential misuse.
The clock’s time is determined by the Bulletin’s experts, who assess the level of risk posed by various global threats. The 85-second mark represents an increased threat level, indicating that the world is at a heightened state of alert.
The Doomsday Clock has been used as a warning device since its inception in 1947. It was originally set at seven minutes to midnight but has been adjusted over the years to reflect changing global threats.
In recent years, the clock’s time has increased due to concerns about nuclear proliferation and cyber threats. However, the current threat level is higher than ever, with climate change and AI development posing significant risks to global stability.
The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists will continue to monitor these threats and adjust the Doomsday Clock accordingly. The organization aims to raise awareness about the importance of addressing these issues to prevent a catastrophic future.
Source: Google News World