A group of scientists are hurrying to document and protect the ancient ruins along Puerto Rico's coasts. They are working as fast as they can before rising sea levels destroy a large part of the island's history.
The work started in August 2017. With the help of 3D imaging and other advanced technologies, the scientists have explored a large piece of land along Puerto Rico's north coast and identified an ancient ceremonial center used by the Taino Indians. About 2,000 years ago, the Tainoes lived on many islands in the Caribbean Sea. But after the arrival of Christopher Columbus and other Europeans, they were all killed.
Scientists also found a large living place just east of the site? which is seriously endangered by rising sea levels and other natural disasters. Puerto Rico's Department of Natural Resources has said the sea level around the island is rising by more than 3 mm every year.
However, climate change has more immediate effects. These include the destruction of the Puerto Rico coastline and natural habitats by storms.
Warmer temperatures in the Caribbean increase the number and strength of storms and Puerto Rico faces the possibility of storms every year for six months during the Atlantic hurricane season. Hurricane Maria had already washed away part of its history.
Scientists are now trying to find out how badly the hurricanes and loss of land have affected the heritage site they are studying. Eric Lo is an engineer who flew to Puerto Rico in August 2017 to start the project one month before Maria struck the island. Lo was surprised at what he saw when he returned months later.
“Pieces of land where I stood do not exist anymore. They are underwater,” he said.
16. Where did the scientists find the ancient Taino Indians' living place?
A.Under the Caribbean Sea. | B.In a European country. |
C.On Puerto Rico's north coast. | D.Along Puerto Rico's east coast. |
17. Why have the Tainos disappeared from the islands in the Caribbean Sea?
A.They were killed by the Europeans. | B.They were destroyed by Hurricane Maria. |
C.They were driven away by the rising sea levels. | D.They were moved away by their government. |
18. What is paragraph 5 mainly about?
A.The serious damage caused by storms. | B.The plan to protect the heritage sites. |
C.The loss of natural habitats in Puerto Rico. | D.The worsening climate conditions in the world. |
19. Which of the following can be the best title for the text?
A.The Obvious Effects of Global Climate Change |
B.Efforts to Preserve Puerto Rico's Coastal Heritage |
C.New Discoveries of Ancient Taino Indians' Ruins |
D.Technologies Used to Identify the Ancient Ruins |