Sponge city ideas to reduce urban flooding in Asia — English Level A1

Extreme weather causes urban flooding in Southeast Asia.
In March 2025 heavy rains hit Jakarta.
At least nine people died in Jakarta.
Floods displaced 90,000 people in the area.
A Manila downpour equalled five days of rain.
Ho Chi Minh streets had over a metre of water.
Climate change makes these storms worse.
Sponge cities absorb rainwater slowly, not drain it.
Bangkok has Benjakitti Forest Park as an example.

Difficult words

flood — Large amount of water that covers land.

floods

rescue — To save someone from danger.

weather — Conditions outside, like rain or sun.

event — Something that happens, an occurrence.

events

rain — Water that falls from clouds.

rains

home — Place where people live.

homes

video — Moving pictures recorded by a camera.

videos

Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.

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Sponge city ideas to reduce urban flooding in Asia^{CEFR A1}

Difficult words

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Discussion questions

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Sponge city ideas to reduce urban flooding in Asia^{CEFR A1}