Question

Swimming at the beach or in a backyard pool are well-known Australian summer activities. But while it is usually a fun time of year, there is a serious side to summer that you might not know about.

1.There are lots of trees and dry grass in remote areas that can easily catch fire. Even throwing a burning cigarette out of a car window can cause a lot of damage. 2.

In February, there were more than 80 different bushfires burning at the same time in New South Wales, a southeastern state of Australia. The Guardian newspaper reported that 42 homes were burned to the ground because of these fires. 3.They are huge farms. Many Australian properties(房产)are larger than 1,000 square kilometers, while the biggest is more than 20,000 square kilometers—even larger than Beijing.

Every household prepares for bushfire season and protects their property. But sometimes the fires are too big and people have to move to safety.

4. It was so hot in February that thousands of bats died from the heat. People can get sick if they stay outside for too long or don’t drink enough water. The heat can also cause power problems for homes and businesses.

5.But it is worth remembering that the heat can cause lots of problems, too.

A. The Australian summer is enjoyable.

B. The hot weather also causes other problems.

C. These homes are not like Chinese ones.

D. Thanks to climate change, this year’s situation is even worse.

E. That is why summer is also known as ‘bushfire season” in Australia.

F. The dry season lasts about six months, usually between April and October.

G. The extreme heat, which can go above 40°C in some cities, is very dangerous.

Answer 1