Weather authorities want to see holiday ban on fireworks_美文

Weather authorities want to see holiday ban on fireworks

Chen said the China Meteorological Administration will issue a four-alert fireworks index on Thursday that will be updated every day during the Chinese New Year. The index indicates the level of smog in the air, with red, the highest alert, warning residents that there will be heavy smog and advising them not to set off any fireworks.

According to the most recent weather forecast by the China Meteorological Administration, a cold snap is expected after Sunday in many parts of the country.

Snow is unlikely to fall in the capital, which usually has a dry winter with little to no snow this time of the year, said Wang Xiuwen, the China Meteorological Administration's chief forecaster.

She said because of the dry conditions in Beijing, there is a chance for fires, especially when fireworks are set off.

Questions:

1. Why do Chinese weather officials want to ban fireworks for Spring Festival?

2. The China Meteorological Administration will issue a four-alert fireworks index during the festival. What will it indicate?

3. Who is Chen Zhenlin?

Answers:

1. They can cause severe air pollution.

2. The level of smog in the air.

3. Spokesman for the China Meteorological Administration.

About the broadcaster:

Anne Ruisi is an editor at China Daily online with more than 30 years of experience as a newspaper editor and reporter. She has worked at newspapers in the U.S., including The Birmingham News in Alabama and City Newspaper of Rochester, N.Y.