ENGLISH MEBY

自然景観と防災意識:豪雨災害からの教訓」の英語長文問題

以下の英文を読み、設問に答えなさい。

The picturesque coastal town of Aoi, nestled amidst towering cliffs and lush green valleys, had long been a haven for tourists seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Its breathtaking scenery, characterized by cascading waterfalls and pristine beaches, attracted visitors from across the globe. However, Aoi’s idyllic charm concealed a lurking danger: its geographical location made it highly vulnerable to flash floods and landslides, particularly during the typhoon season. For generations, residents had lived in harmony with nature, their lives intertwined with the rhythm of the seasons. Traditional farming methods and deep-rooted community bonds ensured their resilience in the face of minor weather disturbances. Knowledge of the terrain and weather patterns, passed down through generations, acted as an effective, albeit informal, early warning system. Yet, this traditional wisdom gradually eroded as younger generations migrated to urban areas, seeking opportunities beyond the confines of their isolated community. The devastating typhoon of 2018 exposed Aoi's vulnerability. Torrential rains triggered catastrophic landslides, burying homes and infrastructure under tons of mud and debris. The disaster underscored the fragility of the town's idyllic façade, exposing the limitations of informal risk management based on traditional knowledge alone. The event tragically highlighted the necessity for comprehensive disaster preparedness, incorporating advanced technology and community-wide education initiatives. In the aftermath, the government implemented a series of measures, including the construction of reinforced infrastructure, the installation of advanced warning systems, and the development of evacuation plans. Furthermore, educational programs were introduced in schools and community centers, focusing on risk assessment, evacuation procedures, and disaster relief strategies. These initiatives sought to cultivate a heightened sense of disaster preparedness among the residents and create a more resilient community capable of mitigating the impact of future natural disasters. The transformation of Aoi’s approach to disaster preparedness highlights a crucial lesson: while appreciating the beauty and serenity of nature, it’s equally critical to acknowledge and address the inherent risks associated with living in close proximity to natural forces. A blend of traditional wisdom, modern technology, and a proactive approach to community education provides the most effective means of mitigating the impact of future natural disasters.

1. What is the main point of the passage?

2. What factor contributed to the erosion of traditional knowledge regarding disaster preparedness in Aoi?

3. What measures were implemented in Aoi after the 2018 typhoon?

4. What is the passage's concluding message regarding disaster preparedness?