Describe a natural disaster you have learned about (e.g., a flood).
You should say:
- What disaster it was
- When and where it happened
- What damage it caused
- and explain how you felt when you learned about it.
🌟 Sample Answer (Band 7.5–8)
One natural disaster I learned about recently was a major flood that occurred in central Vietnam in 2020. It was triggered by a combination of continuous heavy rainfall and several tropical storms hitting the region within just a few weeks. As a result, many provinces, especially Quảng Trị and Thừa Thiên-Huế, were completely submerged.
The flood caused severe destruction. Thousands of homes were underwater, roads were washed away, and agricultural land was heavily damaged. Many people lost their belongings, and unfortunately, there were several casualties, including rescue workers who were trying to save others. I remember watching the news and seeing images of families stranded on rooftops, waiting to be rescued.
When I learned about this disaster, I felt extremely sad and helpless. It made me realise how vulnerable people can be to natural forces, especially those living in low-lying areas. At the same time, I felt grateful for the volunteers and rescue teams who worked tirelessly to help the victims. The event also made me more aware of the importance of disaster preparation and climate change mitigation.
Part 3 – Discussion Questions
1. Why do you think floods have become more common in recent years?
Floods are becoming more common mainly due to climate change. Rising temperatures cause more intense rainfall, and many cities are not designed to handle such large amounts of water. Urbanisation also plays a role because natural drainage areas are replaced by concrete buildings and roads. As a result, water cannot flow naturally, which increases the likelihood of flooding.
2. How can governments reduce the impact of flood disasters?
Governments can invest in stronger drainage systems, build flood barriers, and reinforce riverbanks. They also need to develop accurate early-warning systems and run public awareness campaigns on emergency response. Additionally, urban planning should be stricter, preventing construction in areas that are at high risk of flooding.
3. Do you think individuals also have a responsibility to prevent floods?
Yes, definitely. Many floods worsen because of blocked drains caused by littering. Individuals can keep their neighbourhoods clean, plant more trees, and raise their homes or valuables if they live in flood-prone areas. While individuals cannot stop floods entirely, their actions can greatly reduce the damage.
4. Should schools teach students about natural disaster preparation?
Absolutely. Schools can play a major role in teaching children how to react during emergencies. Knowledge such as first aid, evacuation procedures, and basic survival skills can save lives. Educating students from a young age helps build a more prepared and resilient society.
