B2 – Upper Intermediate
Recent research shows some heatwaves are already too extreme for human survival, especially for older adults. Even temperatures below previous “fatal” thresholds can be deadly when humidity and sun exposure are considered.
Read the article to know why climate change is expected to make these conditions more common.
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “wet bulb temperature” mean? “The absolute limit for humans to survive had been assumed to be a six-hour exposure to a wet bulb temperature of 35C.” Use it in a sentence.
- What does “core body temperature” mean? “The study only looked for periods where deadly heatstroke was likely if a person was exposed for six hours and also assumed people were entering the heat with normal core body temperature.” Use it in a sentence.
- What does “to zoom in to something” mean? “My first thought was ‘Oh shit’ – I really didn’t expect to see that, especially when you zoom in to individual cities.“ Use it in a sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- How do extreme heatwaves affect people’s daily lives in your country?
- Do you think your area is prepared for more intense heat in the future? Why or why not?
- What groups of people are most at risk during severe heatwaves?
- What are some simple ways individuals can protect themselves during extreme heat?
- Do you think governments are doing enough to address climate-related health risks like heatwaves? Why or why not?