Vocabulary: Extreme natural events p. 110

Look at the pictures and then match the words to their definitions.
1 A severe snowstorm with strong winds.            ________
2 A very strong, tropical storm with very high winds and heavy rain.            ________
3 A moving mass of wet dirt and rocks down a slope.            ________
4 A hole in the ground that forms when the ground collapses.            ________

Fun fact: a typhoon and hurricane are the same thing; the name given depends on which part of the world they happen in. Hurricanes occur especially in the West Atlantic Ocean; while typhoons in the West Pacific Ocean.

Choose the correct alternative to complete the news extracts.
1 A large ________ opened in a busy intersection of Rome this morning, swallowing a car. Luckily, there were no injuries reported.
2 Heavy rains caused a ________ earlier today, causing damage to several homes. Emergency crews are on the scene assisting residents.
3 A powerful ________ is heading towards Southern Japan. Residents are urged to stay informed and follow all official instructions.
4 A major ________ hit the Northeast of the USA, dumping several feet of snow. Residents are advised to stay indoors if possible.