I am an Assistant Editor and Severe Weather & Science Journalist at The Watchers, specializing in real-time severe weather coverage, geophysical event reporting, and research-driven scientific analysis. You can reach me at rishav(at)watchers(.)news.

  • New studies suggest smaller impactors could be a better planetary defense strategy against asteroids

    ByRishav Kothari

    Two studies published in Nature Communications explore and provide insights into efficient planetary defense strategies. These studies came out during the period when 2024 YR4 made headlines with its potential for impact in 2032. The results provide valuable insights into how to create better planetary defense procedures based on the behavior of asteroid Dimorphos ejecta produced by NASA’s Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART) mission.

  • Severe floods claim 11 lives in Madagascar

    ByRishav Kothari

    At least 11 people have died in severe flooding that has affected parts of Madagascar, including the Analamanga region, over the past two weeks. Rising river levels since February 15, 2025, have led to widespread inundation, prompting school closures and emergency rescues in the affected areas.

  • Historic floods claim 21 lives in Kentucky

    ByRishav Kothari

    A powerful storm system swept through Kentucky starting February 15, 2025, bringing heavy rainfall that caused historic flooding, widespread damage, and mudslides across the state. At least 21 people have died, and emergency crews have conducted more than 1 000 rescues.