1. Anxious Korean travelers reconsidering, canceling Japan trips after recent earthquake

The article reports on the growing concern among Korean tourists following a strong earthquake in northern Japan. The main focus of the article is not only the earthquake itself, but how uncertainty and fear are influencing travel decisions, particularly for people planning to visit Sapporo during the winter season. By combining personal interviews, official information, and on-the-ground updates, the article presents a detailed picture of how travelers are reacting to the situation. One of the most effective aspects of the article is its use of individual stories. The writer includes comments from travelers who are closely monitoring the situation, checking travel forums, and debating whether to cancel their trips. These voices help the reader understand the emotional stress people are experiencing, especially when travel plans are already booked and refunds are not available. The anxiety described by the travelers feels realistic and relatable, particularly for readers who have experienced uncertainty before a trip.

The article also provides clear background information about the earthquake, including its magnitude, location, and the ongoing risk of aftershocks. By explaining the advisory issued by the Japan Meteorological Agency and mentioning worst-case scenarios, the article shows why travelers are taking the situation seriously. At the same time, it avoids exaggeration by stating that large-scale cancellations have not yet occurred. Statements from airlines and travel agencies add balance and show that daily operations are still continuing in many areas. Another important element of the article is the role of information sources. Travelers are shown to rely not only on official announcements, but also on online forums, social media, and personal accounts from others who experienced the earthquake. These mixed sources contribute to confusion and heightened worry, as some reports describe frightening situations such as shaking buildings and emergency alerts. The article captures how constant exposure to such information can increase anxiety, even when the situation remains uncertain rather than clearly dangerous. 

Overall, the article offers a clear and well-structured account of how natural disasters can affect people’s plans and emotions, even outside the directly affected area. It successfully combines factual reporting with human experiences, allowing readers to understand both the situation in Japan and the concerns of Korean travelers. The article does not push a dramatic narrative, but instead presents a realistic look at uncertainty, hesitation, and decision-making in the face of unpredictable events. 

Reference:

https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2025-12-10/national/socialAffairs/Anxious-Korean-tr

avelers-reconsidering-canceling-Japan-trips-after-recent-earthquake/2474602

2. Mount Semeru Eruption 

The Guardian reported that Mount Semeru, the highest volcano on the Indonesian island of Java, erupted on November 20, 2025. The eruption produced large clouds of hot ash and pyroclastic flows that traveled several kilometers down the slopes of the volcano. A tall column of ash also rose high into the sky, visible from far away. The eruption posed significant danger to nearby communities, and as a result, hundreds of residents living in surrounding villages had to evacuate to safer locations. Authorities raised the volcano’s alert level to the highest to warn everyone about the serious risk and ensure proper safety measures were taken.

The news video provides clear visuals of the eruption, showing the intense ash clouds, glowing lava, and the quick response of people moving to safety. It highlights the immense power and unpredictability of volcanic activity. The video emphasizes the importance of staying alert and following evacuation orders during such events. The efforts of authorities and local communities in evacuating residents demonstrate the need for preparation and cooperation to prevent casualties during natural disasters. Beyond the immediate danger, the eruption is likely to have long-term effects on the affected areas. Thick layers of ash can cover houses, farmland, and roads, making daily life challenging for local residents. Crops may be damaged or destroyed, leading to economic difficulties for farmers. Water sources may be polluted, and exposure to volcanic ash can cause health problems, especially for children, the elderly, and people with respiratory issues. Roads and transportation may be disrupted, affecting access to essential services and delaying recovery efforts.

In addition, the eruption may have environmental impacts. Volcanic ash can change soil composition, temporarily affect the local climate by reducing sunlight, and disrupt ecosystems. Livestock may also be affected if grazing areas are covered in ash. The psychological impact on residents, including fear and stress from evacuation and uncertainty about their homes and livelihoods, is another important consideration. 

Overall, the Guardian’s report gives a detailed and understandable account of the Mount Semeru eruption. It shows both the immediate impact of the volcanic activity and the broader challenges faced by the affected communities. The news highlights the importance of disaster preparedness, rapid emergency response, and ongoing support for residents who must cope with the consequences of natural events. The report helps readers understand the scale of the eruption, the dangers involved, and the measures taken to keep people safe. 

Reference:

https://www.theguardian.com/world/video/2025/nov/20/indonesia-volcano-mount-semerueruption-video

3. Wildfire Smoke and Global Health Risks

In his article “Wildfire smoke will kill nearly 1.4m each year by end of century if emissions not curbed – study” published in The Guardian on September 18, 2025, journalist Oliver Milman presents the alarming findings of new scientific research on the growing dangers of wildfire smoke.

The study predicts that by the end of this century, if greenhouse gas emissions are not significantly reduced, nearly 1.4 million people worldwide could die each year due to health problems caused by exposure to wildfire smoke. The United States alone may see smoke-related deaths increase to more than 70,000 annually by 2050, compared to about 40,000 today. The article explains that the primary danger comes from fine particulate matter (PM2.5) present in smoke, which penetrates deeply into the lungs and bloodstream, leading to respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses. As climate change drives hotter temperatures and drier vegetation, the frequency and severity of wildfires is expected to rise, putting more populations at risk. Beyond health, the article emphasizes the heavy economic impact, projecting that smoke-related damage in the U.S. alone could reach more than $600 billion annually by mid-century. While Africa is projected to suffer the most dramatic increase, with an eleven-fold rise in deaths, the U.S. and Europe may experience about a doubling of current levels. Milman underscores the urgent need for both long-term strategies, such as cutting greenhouse gas emissions, and short-term measures like better land and fuel management, stronger public health protections, and greater awareness of the risks of smoke exposure. Overall, the article is a powerful reminder that wildfire smoke is not just an environmental issue but a pressing global health threat that demands immediate and coordinated action.

Reference:

Milman, O. (2025, September 18). Wildfire smoke will kill nearly 1.4m each year by end of century if emissions not curbed – study. The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/sep/18/wildfire-smoke-global-deaths-2050