Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- uncertainty /uhn-SUR-tn-tee/
- attain /uh-TEYN/
- torrential /taw-REN-shuhl/
- underscore /UHN-der-skawr/
- mitigate /MIT-i-geyt/
[noun] – a situation in which something is not known, or something that is not known
The uncertainty about the weather made it difficult to plan the trip.
[verb] – to reach or succeed in getting something
She attained a high score on the exam after months of studying.
[adjective] – (of rain) falling rapidly and in great amounts
The outdoor event was canceled due to torrential rain and strong winds.
[verb] – to emphasize the importance of something
The teacher underscored the importance of reviewing notes before the exam.
[verb] – to make something less harmful, serious, or severe
Wearing protective gear can help mitigate the risk of injuries in sports.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Three tropical cyclones—Rae, Seru, and Alfred—are currently active in the South Pacific, an unusual event according to meteorologists. This activity is occurring during the peak of the cyclone season, which extends from November to April. Tropical cyclones, classified as hurricanes in the North Atlantic, develop over warm ocean waters and can cause destructive winds and flooding. Meteorological records indicate that the last occurrence of three simultaneous cyclones in the region was in January 2021, when Lucas, Ana, and Bina were active. However, uncertainty remains regarding whether Bina officially attained Category 1 status. Rae formed north of Fiji on February 21, producing intense winds and heavy rain that damaged fruit trees. Alfred, which developed in the Coral Sea on Monday, is forecast to bring torrential rainfall to Queensland, Australia, over the weekend. Seru, which became a cyclone on February 25, is tracking near Vanuatu but is expected to remain offshore, although adverse maritime conditions may arise.
Scientists suggest that the Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO), a large-scale atmospheric fluctuation, may have contributed to the unusual cyclone activity. The MJO, which enhances tropical storm formation, appears to be moving over the South Pacific, fostering conditions favorable for cyclone development. Climate researchers emphasize that atmospheric patterns remain complex and involve numerous natural oscillations. One expert highlighted that unpredictable elements might have contributed to the simultaneous formation of these three cyclones. Meteorologists continue to monitor the situation, assessing potential impacts on coastal communities and maritime operations. Authorities have issued advisories to ensure preparedness for possible severe weather conditions. The current event underscores the necessity of ongoing research into atmospheric dynamics to enhance forecasting accuracy and mitigate cyclone-related risks.
Scientists suggest that the Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO), a large-scale atmospheric fluctuation, may have contributed to the unusual cyclone activity. The MJO, which enhances tropical storm formation, appears to be moving over the South Pacific, fostering conditions favorable for cyclone development. Climate researchers emphasize that atmospheric patterns remain complex and involve numerous natural oscillations. One expert highlighted that unpredictable elements might have contributed to the simultaneous formation of these three cyclones. Meteorologists continue to monitor the situation, assessing potential impacts on coastal communities and maritime operations. Authorities have issued advisories to ensure preparedness for possible severe weather conditions. The current event underscores the necessity of ongoing research into atmospheric dynamics to enhance forecasting accuracy and mitigate cyclone-related risks.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever experienced a severe storm or cyclone? If so, how did it affect you or your community? If not, how do you think you would prepare for one?
- Have you ever had a situation where weather conditions changed your plans? If so, what did you do instead? If not, how do you usually check the weather before making plans?
- Do you agree that scientists should focus more on studying atmospheric changes to predict cyclones?
- What do you think are the biggest difficulties meteorologists face in predicting severe weather events?
- If three cyclones happen at the same time, what challenges could arise for emergency response teams?
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.
- currently
- season
- offshore
- monitor
- enhance