In Harare, climate change is increasingly evident through extreme temperatures, unpredictable rainfall patterns, and recurrent flooding, alongside noticeable changes in seasonal weather such as less consistently cold winters and occasional extreme cold spells.
One of the most visible climate change induced impacts is the rise in extreme heat, particularly during the hot season. Temperatures are becoming more intense and prolonged, affecting daily life, productivity, and health especially for children, the elderly, and those working outdoors. Heat stress has become more common, and demand for electricity and water increases during these periods, putting pressure on already strained infrastructure.
At the same time, rainfall has become highly unpredictable. Harare now experiences long dry spells followed by short periods of intense rainfall, which often lead to urban flooding. Poor drainage systems, informal settlements in wetlands, and blocked storm-water drains worsen flooding, damaging homes, roads, and sanitation systems. These floods increase the risk of waterborne diseases such as cholera and typhoid, which have affected parts of the city in recent years.
In response, communities and authorities have taken limited but growing adaptive measures. Some residents harvest rainwater, raise foundations of homes in flood-prone areas, or adjust planting calendars. The city council and government have promoted wetland protection, climate-smart agriculture, and early warning systems, although enforcement and resources remain challenges. Civil society organizations and churches have also played a role in awareness campaigns on sanitation, disaster preparedness, and environmental conservation.
Overall, Harare’s experience reflects how global climate change manifests locally, interacting with urban planning challenges and socioeconomic vulnerabilities. Strengthening infrastructure, improving climate governance, and supporting community-led adaptation are critical for building resilience in the city