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In July 2026, the south-western region of France, particularly the area surrounding Bordeaux, faced a devastating environmental crisis. This region, renowned globally for its historic architecture and prestigious vineyards, became the site of a massive wildfire that necessitated the evacuation of tens of thousands of residents. The scale of the destruction has been significant, with emergency services reporting that thousands of hectares of forest have already been consumed by the flames.

The operation to combat the fire involves over a thousand firefighters working tirelessly to prevent the blaze from encroaching further into residential zones. These teams are utilizing specialized aircraft to drop water and chemical retardants. This technique, referred to as containment, is essential for slowing the fire’s progress. However, experts warn that unless the prevailing weather conditions shift, the situation remains precarious.

The origins of this disaster are linked to a severe heatwave that has affected Europe for several weeks. Meteorological experts point out that prolonged high temperatures, combined with an absence of rainfall, result in extremely dry soil and vegetation. Under such conditions, even a minor spark can ignite a fire that quickly gains momentum, making it exceptionally difficult to extinguish once it has started.

The impact on the local community has been profound. Many residents were granted only a limited window to collect their essential belongings before being relocated to temporary shelters. While there have been no recorded fatalities, the economic and environmental repercussions are expected to be long-lasting. Furthermore, the smoke has severely compromised air quality, posing a health risk to vulnerable individuals with respiratory issues.

This event serves as a stark reminder of the broader challenges posed by climate change. Scientists have consistently predicted that extreme weather events will become more frequent as global temperatures rise. Consequently, authorities are now balancing immediate rescue operations with the development of long-term strategies to enhance regional resilience against future environmental disasters.

1. What is the primary purpose of the article?

• A.To explain the historical significance of the Bordeaux vineyards.
• B.To report on a major environmental emergency in south-western France.
• C.To provide instructions on how to evacuate during a wildfire.
• D.To criticize the French government’s response to a heatwave.

2. According to the text, what is ‘containment’ in the context of firefighting?

• A.The process of moving residents to temporary shelters.
• B.A method of predicting where a fire will start next.
• C.Using aircraft to drop substances that stop a fire’s spread.
• D.Restricting access to the city of Bordeaux for safety.

3. What does the author suggest about the start of the fire?

• A.It was caused by a deliberate act of arson.
• B.The dry conditions made it easy for a small spark to cause a large fire.
• C.The fire would have started even if it had rained recently.
• D.Meteorologists predicted the exact location where it would ignite.

4. What is the scientific view mentioned regarding future weather events?

• A.Extreme weather will become less common as technology improves.
• B.Global temperature changes are not related to local wildfires.
• C.Wildfires will only occur in areas with historic architecture.
• D.Intense weather events are likely to happen more often due to rising temperatures.

5. In the third paragraph, the word ‘momentum’ is closest in meaning to:

• A.The height of the flames.
• B.The speed and force of growth.
• C.The amount of fuel available.
• D.The direction of the wind.