Pre-reading questions:
- What is a hurricane, and how is it formed? Can you describe its main characteristics and the regions where it typically occurs?
- Can you think of any recent or historical hurricanes that have made headlines? What do you remember about them?
Vocabulary:
- climate /KLAHY-mit/
- disaster /di-ZAS-ter/
- protection /pruh-TEK-shuhn/
- securely /si-KYOOR-lee/
- risk /risk/
[noun] – the typical weather conditions in a particular region over a long period
The climate in tropical areas is usually hot and humid throughout the year.
[noun] – an event causing great damage, destruction, or distress, such as a hurricane, flood, or earthquake
The earthquake turned into a disaster, leaving many people homeless and without food or water.
[noun] – the act of keeping someone or something safe from harm, damage, or loss
Wearing a helmet provides protection for your head while riding a bicycle.
[adverb] – in a way that is firmly fixed or fastened in place and is unlikely to give way or be removed
Make sure to tie the boat securely to the dock before leaving to prevent it from drifting away.
[noun] – the possibility of something bad happening or of something having a harmful effect on someone or something
Climbing steep mountains without proper equipment poses a significant risk of injury or even death.
Article reading:
Even though forecasters expect a quieter season, officials emphasize the importance of being prepared for extreme weather. Many homes in Hawaii, particularly those built with single-wall construction, are vulnerable during natural disasters. These houses lack protection against hurricanes, and their foundations are often not securely anchored. Despite being cheaper to build, these homes face higher risks due to global warming, which leads to stronger storms. In summary, while this year’s hurricane season in Hawaii is anticipated to be less active than usual, residents need to remain prepared for potential extreme weather events, regardless of the forecast.
Comprehension questions
- How do El Nino and La Nina impact global weather patterns according to the article?
- Why are many homes in Hawaii, especially those with single-wall construction, vulnerable during natural disasters?
- What specific type of homes in Hawaii are mentioned as being vulnerable during natural disasters, and why are they vulnerable?
- Despite the forecast for a calmer hurricane season, why do officials emphasize the importance of preparedness for extreme weather events in Hawaii?
- What is the main message conveyed by the article regarding the upcoming hurricane season in Hawaii?
Discussion questions
- Do you know anyone who lives in a house vulnerable to hurricanes or natural disasters? If so, how do they prepare for such events?
- Can you recall a time when changes in weather patterns affected your daily life or plans? How did you adapt to those changes?
- Do you agree that it’s essential to stay prepared for extreme weather events, even if forecasts predict a calmer season?
- How do you think government agencies and communities can work together to increase preparedness for natural disasters, considering the vulnerabilities of certain types of housing?
- In what ways do you think climate change is impacting the frequency and intensity of natural disasters around the world, and what measures can individuals and governments take to address these challenges?