Question

The passage given below is followed by four alternate summaries. Choose the option that best captures the essence of the passage.
Heatwaves are becoming longer, frequent and intense due to climate change. The impacts of extreme heat are unevenly experienced; with older people and young children, those with pre-existing medical conditions and on low incomes significantly more vulnerable. Adaptation to heatwaves is a significant public policy concern. Research conducted among at-risk people in the UK reveals that even vulnerable people do not perceive themselves as at risk of extreme heat; therefore, early warnings of extreme heat events do not perform as intended. This suggests that understanding how extreme heat is narrated is very important. The news media play a central role in this process and can help warn people about the potential danger, as well as about impacts on infrastructure and society.

• A. Heatwaves pose an enormous risk; the media plays a pivotal role in alerting people to this danger.
• B. People are vulnerable to heatwaves caused due to climate change, measures taken are ineffective.
• C. Protection from heat waves is important but current reports and public policies seem ineffective.
• D. News stories help in warning about heatwaves, but they have to become more effective.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

The text discusses the increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves due to climate change, disproportionately impacting vulnerable groups. It emphasizes the need to adapt to heatwaves as a key public policy issue. Research shows vulnerable individuals may not perceive their susceptibility to extreme heat, highlighting the importance of understanding how extreme heat risks are communicated. The passage specifically points to the news media's critical role in warning the public about heatwave dangers and their societal and infrastructural consequences.

Option (A) suggests general protection importance without highlighting the media's role in warning about heatwave dangers.
Option (B) recognizes heatwave vulnerability but omits the media's alerting function, instead criticizing general measures.
Option (C) accurately captures the main point: heatwaves are a significant risk, and the media is vital in warning the public.
Option (D) notes the need for better news reporting but doesn't emphasize the media's primary role in alerting the public to heatwave risks, as presented in the passage.

Therefore, option (C) is correct: Heatwaves pose a substantial risk, and the media plays a crucial role in alerting the public to this danger.