The Bulletin of Atomic Scientists has moved the Doomsday Clock to its closest time to midnight since it was created in 1947. The clock, which is a symbolic indicator of the world’s vulnerability to destruction, now stands at 100 seconds to midnight.

The decision to move the clock was based on a number of factors, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the threat of a nuclear arms race, and the lack of progress on climate change. The Bulletin of Atomic Scientists also cited the failure of world leaders to address the dangers of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and biotechnology.

The announcement of the Doomsday Clock’s new time was met with alarm by experts around the world. In a statement, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed his “deep concern” and urged governments to take urgent action to address the risks posed by climate change, nuclear weapons, and other threats.

The Doomsday Clock has been adjusted 20 times since its creation. The closest it has ever been to midnight was in 1953 when the United States and the Soviet Union tested the first thermonuclear weapons.

The Bulletin of Atomic Scientists hopes that by moving the Doomsday Clock, world leaders will be spurred into action to address the dangers facing humanity.