©(AP Photo/Hiro Komae, File)
Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- scenario /si-NAIR-ee-oh/
[noun] – a possible situation or sequence of events that might happen
Scientists prepared a scenario where rising sea levels would affect coastal towns. - imminent /IM-uh-nuhnt/
[adjective] – about to happen very soon
Dark clouds signaled the imminent arrival of a strong storm. - apprehension /ap-ri-HEN-shuhn/
[noun] – worry or fear that something bad might happen
Travelers showed apprehension about delays during the busy holiday season. - portent /PAWR-tent/
[noun] – a sign or warning that something, often bad, is going to happen
The unusual weather was viewed as a portent of environmental change. - catastrophe /kuh-TAS-truh-fee/
[noun] – a sudden event that causes great damage or suffering
The earthquake turned into a catastrophe for the small coastal town.
Article Reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
The Tokyo Metropolitan Government unveiled AI-based and computer-generated videos this week for Volcanic Disaster Preparedness Day, showing a possible scenario of a major eruption of Mount Fuji. The volcano, located about 100 kilometers from central Tokyo, last erupted in 1707 but remains active. The simulation showed volcanic ash spreading rapidly over the capital, paralyzing transportation, damaging food and power supplies, and creating severe respiratory risks. Authorities stated that the videos were created to help the 37 million residents of the Tokyo metropolitan region get ready for potential disasters. Although there are currently no indications of an imminent eruption, the project underscores Japan’s vulnerability to natural disasters, including earthquakes, typhoons, and volcanic activity. The timing of the release raised questions among residents, some of whom expressed apprehension about the sudden emphasis on volcanic hazards.
The government emphasized that the simulation was not a forecast but a tool to improve awareness and readiness. The video included practical advice, such as maintaining emergency food and medical supplies at home. University of Tokyo expert Naoya Sekiya clarified that the exercise reflected years of scenario planning rather than immediate volcanic danger, noting that Japan regularly develops strategies to mitigate risks from its 111 active volcanoes. Some residents, however, reported unease, interpreting the vivid imagery as a portent of catastrophe. Disaster specialists argued that such visualizations can cultivate vigilance and strengthen public preparedness, even if they also generate anxiety. The initiative reflects Japan’s meticulous approach to crisis management, highlighting both the necessity and the psychological challenge of sustaining community resilience in a nation located on the volatile Pacific “Ring of Fire.”
The government emphasized that the simulation was not a forecast but a tool to improve awareness and readiness. The video included practical advice, such as maintaining emergency food and medical supplies at home. University of Tokyo expert Naoya Sekiya clarified that the exercise reflected years of scenario planning rather than immediate volcanic danger, noting that Japan regularly develops strategies to mitigate risks from its 111 active volcanoes. Some residents, however, reported unease, interpreting the vivid imagery as a portent of catastrophe. Disaster specialists argued that such visualizations can cultivate vigilance and strengthen public preparedness, even if they also generate anxiety. The initiative reflects Japan’s meticulous approach to crisis management, highlighting both the necessity and the psychological challenge of sustaining community resilience in a nation located on the volatile Pacific “Ring of Fire.”
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- Have you ever experienced an earthquake, typhoon, or other natural disaster? If so, how did you feel and what did you do? If not, what would you do first if one happened near your home?
- Have you ever joined a safety drill at school or in the community? If so, what did you learn from it? If not, what do you think people can learn if they join a safety drill in the future?
- Do you agree that showing strong disaster videos can help people prepare better?
- What might be the good and bad effects of showing strong disaster images to the public?
- What role should schools in your country play in preparing students for disasters like eruptions or earthquakes?
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.
- AI-based
- video
- disaster
- transportation
- power supply