Tourists Risk Lives to See Melting Glaciers
catch off guard: to surprise someone when they are not prepared
As global warming increases, many people are rushing to see glaciers before they disappear. But these trips can be dangerous. In 2019, three tourists died near the Valdez Glacier in Alaska. They were caught off guard when huge chunks of ice broke off from the glacier, killing them. Tour guide Zach Sheldon found their bodies the next day.
As glaciers melt due to climate change, they become more unstable. In Iceland, an American tourist died when an ice cave collapsed. Experts say accidents like this might happen more often because glaciers are becoming more unpredictable.
Tourists also contribute to climate change by flying long distances. Pollution from air travel causes glaciers to melt faster. Some tourists do not realize they are part of the problem.
Tour guides are noticing the changes. Sheldon said the Valdez Glacier retreated a mile in one year. He thinks there may be only a few years left to see these glaciers. As glaciers disappear, so does the opportunity to experience them safely.
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The sudden rainstorm caught me off guard.
She was caught off guard by the unexpected question during the interview.
The team’s early goal caught their opponents off guard.
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Tourists are rushing to see glaciers before they disappear. The trips are turning deadly.