Extreme weather and supply problems are getting worse because of climate change.
A hurricane named Milton is coming to Florida’s west coast. Meteorologists say it will hit on Wednesday. They think it will be a strong storm, either a Category 3 or 4. Some experts say it could cost between $50 and $175 billion in damage.
Many people in Florida have to leave their homes to stay safe. Milton has already been a very strong hurricane. It had winds of 180 miles per hour on Monday, reaching Category 5 status. Now, it is a Category 4 storm.
As businesses close for the storm, they need to have backup plans. They should work with reliable suppliers who can help in emergencies. Lisa Anderson, a supply chain expert, says businesses should treat suppliers as partners, not just vendors.
Businesses must prepare for more storms because of climate change. Julie Swann, a professor, says good planning can save money. After a recent storm named Helene caused many problems and deaths, help from companies like Home Depot and Lowe’s was important.
It is vital for businesses to have strong connections with suppliers and even competitors. That way, they can get help when needed.
Vocabulary List:
- Meteorologists /ˌmiː.ti.əˈrɒl.ə.dʒɪsts/ (noun): Scientists who study the atmosphere and weather patterns.
- Hurricane /ˈhɜːrɪˌkeɪn/ (noun): A large violent storm characterized by high winds and heavy rain.
- Category /ˈkæt.ə.ɡɔːr.i/ (noun): A class or division of people or things regarded as having particular shared characteristics.
- Suppliers /səˈplaɪ.ərz/ (noun): Individuals or businesses that provide goods or services.
- Emergencies /ɪˈmɜːrdʒən.siz/ (noun): Sudden urgent situations requiring immediate action.
- Connections /kəˈnɛkʃənz/ (noun): Relationships or associations between people groups or concepts.
How much do you know?
What is the name of the hurricane approaching Florida's west coast?
What category storm is Hurricane Milton predicted to be?
According to experts, how much damage could Hurricane Milton cause?
Who suggests that businesses should treat suppliers as partners, not just vendors?
Which storm caused problems and deaths, leading to help from companies like Home Depot and Lowe's?
Who emphasizes the importance of businesses having strong connections with suppliers and competitors?
Climate change is not a factor contributing to extreme weather and supply problems.
Milton was initially a Category 5 hurricane before weakening to a Category 4.
Lisa Anderson recommends that businesses work with reliable suppliers in times of emergencies.
Julie Swann suggests that good planning can save money during storms.
After Hurricane Helene, companies like Home Depot and Lowe's did not provide assistance.
Having strong connections with competitors is not essential for businesses during emergencies.
According to meteorologists, Hurricane Milton is expected to hit Florida's west coast on .
Hurricane Milton had winds of 180 miles per hour on Monday, reaching status.
Experts estimate that Hurricane Milton could cost between $ billion in damage.
Julie Swann suggests that businesses should prepare for more storms due to change.
It is crucial for businesses to have strong connections with suppliers and even during emergencies.
Lisa Anderson recommends that businesses treat suppliers as , not just vendors.