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Italy is currently facing a significant climate crisis as an intense heatwave sweeps across the country. In a recent announcement, health officials confirmed that twenty-five out of twenty-seven major cities, including popular tourist destinations such as Rome, Venice, and Milan, will be placed on the highest ‘red alert’ level. This emergency status indicates that the extreme temperatures pose a serious health risk to the entire population, not just those typically considered vulnerable, such as infants or the elderly. Consequently, authorities have urged residents to remain indoors between the hours of 11:00 and 18:00 and to maintain adequate hydration to combat the heat.

The current weather phenomenon is being attributed to a subtropical anticyclone originating in North Africa. This high-pressure system, which is currently intensifying over the Mediterranean, functions as a barrier that traps hot air over land while blocking cooler air from entering. This ‘lid’ effect has resulted in record-breaking temperatures that show little sign of subsiding in the coming days.

However, the crisis is not limited to Italy; it represents a broader trend affecting much of Southern Europe. High temperatures and prolonged dry periods have led to devastating wildfires across the region. In France, thousands were forced to evacuate the southern Var region after a blaze reignited, while in Greece, tourists had to be rescued by sea as flames threatened coastal areas. Data released by the European Union suggests that the scale of destruction is unprecedented. For instance, in Spain, over 200,000 hectares of land have already been consumed by fire this year.

While some fires are now being brought under control, such as the massive blaze in France’s Gironde region, the overall situation remains precarious. Experts emphasize that these escalating weather patterns are a direct consequence of climate change. As these extreme events become more frequent, there is an urgent need for global reflection on how human habits must adapt to protect the environment and mitigate future disasters.

1. What is the primary purpose of the article?

• A.To provide travel advice for tourists visiting Italy and Greece.
• B.To report on the severe heatwave in Italy and its wider impact on Europe.
• C.To explain the scientific mechanics of subtropical anticyclones.
• D.To compare the wildfire prevention strategies of different European nations.

2. According to the text, what specific advice have Italian health officials given to the public?

• A.Only the elderly and children should stay indoors during the day.
• B.Residents should avoid all outdoor activities until the red alert is lifted.
• C.People should stay out of the sun during the hottest seven hours of the day.
• D.Tourists are advised to leave major cities like Rome and Venice immediately.

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

• A.It is a new phenomenon never seen before in North Africa.
• B.It acts as a physical barrier that keeps high temperatures concentrated in one area.
• C.It is caused by the cooling of the Mediterranean Sea.
• D.It is the primary method used by scientists to predict wildfires.

4. What is the author’s attitude regarding the current environmental situation in Europe?

• A.Optimistic that the fires in France and Spain are now fully resolved.
• B.Skeptical that climate change is the main reason for the rising temperatures.
• C.Indifferent, as heatwaves are a common occurrence in Southern Europe.
• D.Serious and concerned about the increasing frequency of extreme weather.

5. What does the word ‘precarious’ mean as used in the final paragraph?

• A.Extremely hot and dry.
• B.Insecure and likely to worsen.
• C.Predictable and easy to manage.
• D.Temporarily resolved.