Social Work Insights on Flood Early Warning in Botswana

Abstract

Flood early warning systems are crucial for communities (households and individuals) to act appropriately and mitigate or prevent hazards from becoming disasters. They empower communities and households to respond and act appropriately to reduce the risk of death, injury, loss of property or damage from floods. Batswana communities are prone to floods and heavy rains. These floods have had a significant impact on communities (individuals and households). Between 1980 and 2010, the country experienced 14 floods disaster events which killed a total number of 686 people and affected 1, 340 496. During the same reporting period, averages of 22 people were killed per year, 43,242 people were affected, and the number affected by floods continues to increase over the years [1]. In 2009, Botswana received heavy rainfall (100 mm) with the most affected areas being Dukwi, Sua, Mmatshumu, Lephephe, and Mosetse. The rationale for the present paper arose from a realization that disasters are increasing in number and severity but no early warnings systems have been developed. John Oliver [2] defines disaster as a part of the environmental process that is of greater than expected frequency and magnitude and causes major “human hardship with significant change”. Despite the frequency of flood disasters, communities have not developed early warning systems that will assist with the minimization of disaster risks. It is vital to note that the structure and functioning of flood early warning systems will vary from one community to another in order to fit the population group/community at risk. Therefore, this paper explores and interrogates flood vulnerability factors and the design of flood early warning systems for Botswana communities, their significance, and the need for enhanced mechanisms to reduce the risk of disasters. Furthermore, it charts the way-forward in relation to developing community relevant flood early warning systems by social workers and communities.