The Effectiveness of Early Warning Systems for the Reduction of Flood Disasters: Some Experiences from Cyclone Induced Floods in Zimbabwe

Abstract The aim of any early warning systems is to provide warning to people of an impending natural hazard so that those vulnerable are aware of the potential impact of the natural processes in order to respond appropriately and minimise damage. This paper looks at variables affecting the implementation of flood hazard early warning systems in a flood prone area of Zimbabwe. Documenting the experiences of the local communities, the Civil Protection Unit responsible for managing disasters, the meteorological services department responsible for weather forecasts, non nongovernmental organisations operating in the area and local authorities, the study provides an important insight for future non structural flood mitigation strategies. The current early warning communication is a one-way process, with those issuing warnings not fully aware of the needs and priorities of vulnerable communities, and therefore not responsive to their needs. Warning information is poorly disseminated to poor communities with limited capacity to respond. The absence of preparedness plans for evacuation, and overdependence on rain fed agriculture by locals hamper the implementation of early warning systems. As a recommendation, there is need for those issuing warning information to acquire more information themselves about how communities perceive risk, and the reasons that underlie their behaviour when floods threaten them. There is also a need to strengthen local communities’ capacity to play a key role in information dissemination before the onset of flood disasters.