Tropical Cyclone Idai Devastates Zimbabwe

Cyclone Idai, a severe weather event in 2019, caused widespread devastation across Malawi, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe, particularly in Zimbabwe's Chimanimani District. The disaster resulted in hundreds of deaths, thousands displaced, and economic losses exceeding US$2 billion. Beyond financial metrics, the cyclone inflicted profound non-economic losses, including lasting trauma, loss of sense of place and belonging due to displacement, breakdown of social networks, and disruption of cultural and spiritual life. Research by scientists from the University of Cape Town, University of Zimbabwe, Midlands State University, and University of South Africa highlights the importance of addressing these 'invisible' losses in disaster recovery efforts to ensure effective and humane rebuilding of lives.