Climate Change and Disaster in Chimanimani: Lessons from Cyclone Idai
The case of Tropical Cyclone Idai in Chimanimani, Zimbabwe, provides a powerful and tragic illustration of how climate change amplifies disaster risks, particularly in vulnerable communities. The following discussion uses this case to address the key questions regarding natural hazards, impact, community vulnerability, and the response mechanisms.
2. Areas Facing the Greatest Impacts
The greatest impacts of extreme weather events, particularly tropical cyclones, are consistently felt in the Eastern Highlands of Zimbabwe.
Chimanimani and Chipinge Districts (Manicaland Province) were the hardest-hit by Cyclone Idai.
Specific Settlements: The towns and villages of Ngangu (Ward 15) and Kopa (Ward 21) in Chimanimani were devastated by floods and landslides.
Why these areas?
Geographical Vulnerability: Chimanimani is a mountainous region with steep slopes and high annual rainfall, making it highly susceptible to landslides and flash floods when torrential rain occurs. The mountains directed the full force of Idai's heavy rains.
Proximity to Cyclone Path: These eastern districts are the first to be hit by storms moving inland from the Indian Ocean across Mozambique.
3. Most Affected Communities: How and Why?
The communities most affected are predominantly poor, rural, and agrarian populations residing in the high-risk zones of Chimanimani.5
Affected CommunitiesHow They Were AffectedWhy They Were Most VulnerableSubsistence FarmersLost crops, livestock, and arable land, leading to acute food insecurity and long-term loss of livelihood. High Reliance on Rain-fed Agriculture: Their economy and survival are directly tied to predictable rainfall, making them extremely susceptible to droughts and floods. Residents of Unplanned Settlements (e.g., Ngangu, Kopa)Massive loss of life, homes, and displacement due to landslides and flooding. Poor Settlement Planning: Land scarcity and weak policy led to settlements being built on dangerously steep slopes, floodplains, and along waterways, which were identified as high-risk zones. Women and ChildrenFaced increased vulnerability to gender-based violence (GBV), psychosocial trauma, and disruption of essential services like healthcare and education. Underlying Gender Inequalities: Women often have limited resources, decision-making power, and disproportionately carry the burden of care and retrieving water/food, exacerbating their exposure and recovery challenges.
Agree