In the summer of 2021, Greece experienced some of the worst wildfires in its recent history. These fires started during one of the hottest heatwaves the country had seen in decades, with temperatures reaching over 40 degrees Celsius. The intense heat, combined with dry conditions, created the perfect environment for wildfires to spread rapidly across the country.
The fires caused significant damage, particularly in the regions of Evia, the Peloponnese, and near Athens. Thousands of people had to evacuate their homes as the fires approached, and many homes, businesses, and farmlands were destroyed. The smoke from the fires also affected air quality, making it difficult for people in nearby areas to breathe.
Wildfires not only destroyed homes and businesses but also had a severe impact on Greece’s natural environment. Large areas of forest were burned, and many animals lost their habitats. The destruction of forests also contributed to soil erosion, which can lead to further environmental problems in the future.
The Greek government, along with firefighters from other countries, worked hard to control the fires and prevent further damage. They used water-dropping planes, helicopters, and ground crews to fight the flames. In some cases, controlled burns were used to stop the fires from spreading to more populated areas.
The 2021 wildfires in Greece were a stark reminder of the dangers that wildfires pose, especially as climate change continues to increase the frequency and intensity of heatwaves around the world. It highlighted the importance of being prepared and taking action to prevent such disasters in the future.
Vocabulary
Wildfire – A large, uncontrolled fire that spreads quickly through forests or grasslands.
Synonyms: Bushfire, Forest fire
Example Sentences:
The wildfire spread rapidly through the dry forest.
Firefighters worked hard to control the wildfire near the town.
Discussion Question: Have you ever heard about a wildfire in your country? How did it affect people?
Evacuate – To leave a place quickly in order to avoid danger.
Synonyms: Flee, Leave
Example Sentences:
Residents had to evacuate their homes because of the approaching wildfire.
The government ordered people to evacuate the area immediately.
Discussion Question: Have you ever had to evacuate your home? What did you do?
Heatwave – A period of unusually hot weather.
Synonyms: Hot spell, Hot period
Example Sentences:
The heatwave caused temperatures to rise above 40 degrees Celsius.
People were advised to stay indoors during the heatwave.
Discussion Question: How do heatwaves affect daily life in your country?
Air Quality – The condition or cleanliness of the air in a particular place.
Synonyms: Air cleanliness, Atmospheric quality
Example Sentences:
The wildfires caused a significant drop in air quality.
Poor air quality can be harmful to people with asthma.
Discussion Question: What can be done to improve air quality in cities?
Controlled Burn – A fire that is intentionally set and carefully controlled to reduce the risk of a more dangerous fire.
Synonyms: Prescribed fire, Planned burn
Example Sentences:
The forest service conducted a controlled burn to prevent future wildfires.
Controlled burns can help remove dry vegetation that could fuel a wildfire.
Discussion Question: Do you think controlled burns are a good way to prevent wildfires? Why or why not?
Grammar Focus
Passive Voice
Example Sentences:
Many homes were destroyed by the wildfire.
The forest was damaged by the fire, but some areas were saved by firefighters.
The decision to evacuate was made by the local government.
Grammar Questions:
What are some things in your city that were built many years ago?
Describe a time when something important was organized by your community.
Discussion Questions
Have you ever experienced a wildfire or known someone who has? How did it impact them?
Do you think governments are doing enough to prevent wildfires? Why or why not?
What other natural disasters are common in your country, and how do they compare to wildfires?
What are some ways communities can prepare for wildfires?
Should more focus be placed on protecting homes or natural habitats during wildfires?
How do you think technology could help in the fight against wildfires?
Do you believe people should be allowed to live in high-risk wildfire areas? Why or why not?
What role does education play in preventing wildfires?
How do wildfires in one part of the world affect the global environment?
How do you think climate change is affecting the frequency of wildfires?
What can individuals do to contribute to environmental protection?
What are some challenges people face when living in areas prone to natural disasters?