Vocabulary:
- forecaster /FOR-ka-str/
- season /SEE-zuhn /
- Pacific /puh-SIF-ik/
- hurricane /HUR-i-keyn/
- tropical /TROP-i-kuhl/
[noun] – someone who predicts or forecasts future events or trends, especially weather
The forecaster said it would rain tomorrow, so I’m bringing my umbrella.
[noun] – a period of the year characterized by particular weather conditions or activities
My favorite season is winter because I love building snowmen.
[adjective] – belonging to or relating to the Pacific Ocean
The Pacific Ocean is vast and teeming with diverse marine life, making it a popular destination for scuba divers and marine biologists alike.
[noun] – a violent storm with very strong winds, especially in the western Atlantic Ocean
During a hurricane, it’s important to stay indoors and away from windows.
[adjective] – typical of, or peculiar to the tropics
We saw many colorful tropical birds while on vacation in the Caribbean.
Article reading:
Despite the forecast, officials stress the importance of being ready for extreme weather. Many homes in Hawaii, especially those made with single-wall construction, are at risk during natural disasters. These houses lack protection against hurricanes, and their foundations are often not well secured to the ground. Although these homes are common because they are cheaper to build, they face higher risks due to global warming, which fuels stronger storms. To sum up, while this year’s hurricane season in Hawaii is expected to be quieter than usual, residents must stay prepared for possible extreme weather events, regardless of what the forecast says.
Discussion Questions:
- Have you ever experienced extreme weather conditions like hurricanes or typhoons? If so, how did you prepare for them? If not, have you ever had to prepare for any other natural disasters?
- Can you recall any instances when weather forecasts influenced your plans or activities? If so, how did you adapt to the forecasted conditions? If not, do you usually check the weather forecast before making plans?
- Do you agree with the officials’ emphasis on the importance of being prepared for extreme weather, despite forecasts predicting fewer hurricanes?
- How do you think advancements in technology, such as improved forecasting techniques, can help communities better prepare for natural disasters like hurricanes?
- In what ways can individuals and communities adapt their lifestyles and infrastructure to become more resilient in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing risks of natural disasters?
Summarization
Describe:
- pattern
- specify
- extreme
- cheap
- resident