Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- especially /iz-PE-shuh-lee /
- weaken /WEE-kuhn/
- caution /KAW-shuhn /
- readiness /RED-ee-nis /
- heighten /HAHYT-n /
[adverb] – particularly; more than usual
People were advised to take precautions, especially those living near the coast.
[verb] – to become less strong; to diminish in intensity
The storm weakened as it moved further inland, causing less damage.
[noun] – care taken to avoid danger or mistakes
Drivers should exercise caution on wet roads to prevent accidents.
[noun] – the state of being prepared or eager to do something
The team showed great readiness for the upcoming competition.
[verb] – to increase or make something stronger
The recent events have heightened our awareness of climate change.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Tropical Storm Alberto developed in the southwestern Gulf of Mexico last week, marking the beginning of what experts predicted would be a busy hurricane season. The storm made landfall in northern Mexico, bringing dangers such as strong winds, heavy rain, and flooding along the coasts of Texas and Mexico. Meteorologists were particularly concerned about the significant rainfall, which led to mudslides and flash floods, especially in states like Tamaulipas, Coahuila, and Nuevo Leon in Mexico, where some areas received over 20 inches of rain. Local authorities responded by closing schools and opening shelters in the affected areas. Residents were advised to stay informed through civil protection alerts and prepare for possible evacuation orders as Alberto approached. In Tampico, a city in Tamaulipas experiencing a severe drought, the rainfall brought relief from water shortages, although there were concerns about flooding.
Tropical storm warnings were active along the coast of Texas and northeastern Mexico as Alberto moved closer to land. After making landfall, the storm weakened and dissipated over Mexico on June 21, 2024. However, authorities remained vigilant regarding risks such as coastal flooding, dangerous ocean currents, and the potential for tornadoes or waterspouts, urging caution among residents and travelers alike. This storm served as a reminder of the active hurricane season forecasted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), highlighting the importance of readiness and awareness within vulnerable coastal communities. Overall, Tropical Storm Alberto presented immediate challenges for coastal regions in Texas and Mexico, underscoring the ongoing risks associated with tropical weather systems during this heightened hurricane season.
Tropical storm warnings were active along the coast of Texas and northeastern Mexico as Alberto moved closer to land. After making landfall, the storm weakened and dissipated over Mexico on June 21, 2024. However, authorities remained vigilant regarding risks such as coastal flooding, dangerous ocean currents, and the potential for tornadoes or waterspouts, urging caution among residents and travelers alike. This storm served as a reminder of the active hurricane season forecasted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), highlighting the importance of readiness and awareness within vulnerable coastal communities. Overall, Tropical Storm Alberto presented immediate challenges for coastal regions in Texas and Mexico, underscoring the ongoing risks associated with tropical weather systems during this heightened hurricane season.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever experienced a severe storm or natural disaster in your region? If so, how did your community respond to it? If not, what measures do you think would be important in such situations?
- Can you share a time when you had to take extra precautions due to severe weather conditions? How did these precautions affect your daily routine?
- Do you agree that media coverage of natural disasters like Tropical Storm Alberto helps in raise awareness and preparedness among the public?
- Considering the aftermath of Tropical Storm Alberto, what do you think are the long-term challenges for regions affected by frequent tropical storms?
- In your opinion, how effective are international collaborations in providing aid and support to countries impacted by natural disasters?
Summarization
Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.
Describe:
Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.
- predict
- authority
- evacuation
- vigilant
- hurricane