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Europe is currently grappling with an exceptional early summer heatwave, sparking considerable concern across the continent. According to Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the head of the World Health Organization (WHO), this extreme weather event may be linked to over 1,300 “excess deaths” recorded since June 21st. Dr. Tedros starkly described heat stress as a “silent killer,” highlighting that many European residential properties, workplaces, and educational institutions were simply not built to withstand such elevated temperatures.

The severity of the situation was further underscored by France’s national health ministry, which reported a substantial increase of approximately 1,000 additional deaths in the country since Wednesday. A significant proportion of these extra fatalities have been observed among individuals aged 65 and above, with a notable 40% rise in deaths occurring within people’s homes. Dr. Tedros issued a grave warning, stating that Europe is warming faster than any other continent on Earth, at a rate double the global average.

As the heatwave progressed eastward, temperature records were decisively broken in several nations. Germany, for example, experienced its hottest day ever for the third consecutive day on Sunday, registering an astonishing 41.7 degrees Celsius in its eastern region. Similarly, the Czech Republic established its second temperature record within two days, reaching 41.1 degrees Celsius. Even Poland surpassed its all-time temperature record, with 40.5 degrees Celsius recorded in the town of Slubice.

Dr. Tedros unequivocally attributed this extreme weather to climate change and global warming. He pointed out that what was once considered a “once-in-a-generation” heatwave is now becoming an almost annual occurrence. In response to this escalating crisis, he has strongly advised European countries to establish and implement “heat health action plans.” These plans are presented as a vital measure to safeguard public health against the escalating challenges presented by an altered climate. The situation necessitates long-term societal adaptations to these new climatic realities.

1. What is the main topic of the article?

• A.The construction flaws in European buildings.
• B.The severe and increasing impact of an early summer heatwave in Europe.
• C.Dr. Tedros’s suggestions for preventing heat-related illnesses.
• D.The exact temperature records broken in various European countries.

2. According to the article, what percentage of the additional deaths in France occurred at home?

• A.21%
• B.30%
• C.40%
• D.65%

3. What can be inferred about the European population’s preparedness for extreme heat?

• A.Many people and structures are not adequately prepared for such high temperatures.
• B.Most European homes have modern air conditioning systems.
• C.The elderly population is largely unaffected by the heatwave.
• D.European governments have already implemented comprehensive heat health plans.

4. What is Dr. Tedros’s primary attitude or purpose in his statements throughout the article?

• A.To praise European countries for their rapid response to the crisis.
• B.To provide a historical overview of European weather patterns.
• C.To highlight the scientific complexities of climate change.
• D.To issue a strong warning and urge immediate preventive action.

5. In the phrase “temperature records were decisively broken,” what does “decisively” most closely mean?

• A.Without any doubt.
• B.Clearly and significantly.
• C.After a long discussion.
• D.Gradually and slowly.