Impacts of hailstorm on urban agriculture in Northern of Maputo City and Matola (Mozambique) - An analysis from a climate change perspective

Abstract

On the night of 1 June 2021, the northern region of Maputo and Matola city was buffeted by hailstorms of various sizes, the most predominant ranging from 0.5 cm - 4.5 cm. This study aims to analyze the impacts of hailstorms on urban horticulture in the northern strip of Maputo City and Matola. We also observed the effects on domestic horticultural production in some neighbourhoods affected by hailstorms. A mixed methodology was chosen, supported by the following methods and techniques: bibliographical and documental research, direct observation, measurement of the dimension and characteristics of the hail generated in the soil, cartography, interview, analysis, and synthesis. In all production areas, it was notorious for the total and partial destruction of ready-to-cut vegetables, with emphasis on cabbage, lettuce, and onions, which resulted in heavy financial losses for farmers. These losses generated a significant increase in vegetable prices in the following days in local markets. This research suggests the need to closely monitor weather events considering the dynamics imposed by climate change, as well as to improve the system of communicating environmental risks to the most vulnerable population.