博客

In late October 2026, a heartwarming video emerged from Indonesia, capturing the moment exhausted firefighters celebrated a sudden and heavy downpour. For weeks, the nation had been struggling against fierce wildfires that devastated vast areas of forest and land. The arrival of rain, following an extended period of extreme drought, offered a critical turning point for emergency services. If the rainfall persists throughout the week, it is expected to completely extinguish the remaining underground flames that have proved so challenging to manage.

The intensity of these fires is largely attributed to Indonesia’s unique geography, specifically its extensive peatlands. Peat consists of organic matter that is exceptionally flammable. When these areas catch fire, they can burn beneath the surface for weeks, rendering traditional firefighting methods like hoses and helicopter water drops largely ineffective. This subterranean burning makes the situation particularly dangerous and difficult to monitor because the fire can spread undetected through the soil.

The impact of these wildfires extends far beyond Indonesia’s borders. The burning produces a thick, toxic smoke known as ‘haze’, which frequently drifts into neighbouring countries. This environmental phenomenon causes severe health issues for millions of people across the region, regardless of their distance from the actual flames. Consequently, the onset of the rainy season is being celebrated across Southeast Asia. While there are concerns that sudden heavy rain might lead to minor flooding in local towns, most residents view the weather as a vital blessing after months of breathing hazardous air.

Environmental specialists warn that unless global climate change is addressed with greater urgency, such extreme weather events are likely to increase in both frequency and severity. Although the immediate threat in Indonesia is currently receding due to the changing weather, the ecological damage will take decades to fully recover. This crisis serves as a poignant reminder of our dependence on natural cycles and the urgent need to protect our shared environment against the backdrop of industrial and economic expansion.

1. What is the main purpose of the article?

• A.To criticize the Indonesian government’s response to wildfires.
• B.To report on the relief brought by rain and the causes of Indonesian wildfires.
• C.To provide a scientific explanation of how peatlands are formed.
• D.To advertise new firefighting technology used in Southeast Asia.

2. Why is it particularly hard to put out fires in peatland areas?

• A.The areas are too remote for helicopters to reach.
• B.The soil contains chemicals that react poorly with water.
• C.The organic matter burns below the ground level.
• D.Firefighters are unable to dance in the thick mud.

3. What can be inferred about the ‘haze’ mentioned in the text?

• A.It only affects people living in the immediate forest area.
• B.It is a natural fog that occurs every rainy season.
• C.It is an international issue that impacts public health widely.
• D.It helps to protect the soil from further burning.

4. What is the experts’ attitude regarding future weather events?

• A.They are optimistic that the rain will solve the problem forever.
• B.They believe that the situation will improve as technology advances.
• C.They are indifferent to the effects of climate change.
• D.They are concerned that such crises will happen more often.

5. What does the word ‘persists’ mean as used in the first paragraph?

• A.Stops suddenly
• B.Continues to exist
• C.Becomes much stronger
• D.Changes direction