Rain may be coming to California.
That’s good news for the many firefighters and other helpers who have gathered there to fight a series of forest fires that have been burning in the US state for more than 11 days.
The fires have destroyed hundreds of homes and have caused a lot of damage across tens of thousands of acres. Many people have had to leave their homes to get away from the fires.
The Weather Channel reports that 10 to 15 centimetres (four to six inches) of rain are forecast for today.
The rain will not only help the firefighters in their battle against the blaze, but it may also help to improve the air quality in northern California, according to CNN, a news service.
The Weather Channel says that if there is too much rain, California could experience floods and mudslides, but, for now, the rain will bring some relief.
Meanwhile, many people have helped to fight the fires and to help people affected by the blazes. Horse & Hound magazine reports that volunteers have been working hard to reunite people with their horses and pets, in areas where people have had to leave.
“The Humane Society of Ventura County is acting as a sanctuary for animals evacuated from their homes,” reports Horse & Hound. Other organizations that are helping animals affected by the fires include the County of Los Angeles Department of Animal Care and Control and the UC Davis Veterinary Emergency Response Team, the magazine says.
The Story Behind the Story: Challenging news stories–lead with “the helpers”
CURRICULUM CONNECTIONS
By Jonathan Tilly
Writing/Discussion Prompt
Today’s article mentions how animals are being provided safety. Who else might require arrangements during an emergency? Make a list of 10 different groups who might need special assistance.
Reading Prompt: Demonstrating Understanding
What are the key points in today’s article? What makes these points the most significant in the article?
Junior
Demonstrate understanding of a variety of texts by summarizing important ideas and citing supporting details (OME, Reading: 1.4).
Intermediate
Demonstrate understanding of increasingly complex texts by summarizing important ideas and citing a variety of details that support the main idea (OME, Reading: 1.4).
Language Feature: Ampersand ( & )
Today’s article makes mention of Horse & Hound magazine. The ampersand in the title is a symbol that means “and.” Think of other examples of where you have seen an ampersand used? Why and when might someone choose to use an ampersand instead of the word “and” ?
KIDS News Break
Young reporters Willem and Nellie at KIDS News Break (not affiliated with us except that we love their YouTube channel) did a great job reporting on the California forest fires, and giving tips on fire safety. AND they did it in English and in French!
