Tropical cyclones have had a considerable impact on the people, environment and economy of Mauritius. Yet details regarding the impact of and response to past cyclones in Mauritian history are relatively scant and there is little known about the role of memory in responses to cyclones, either from a current or historical standpoint. This research examines past experiences and impacts of cyclones in Mauritius, as well as memories of historical cyclones and contemporary perceptions of cyclone vulnerability. The research draws from archive research, community interviews, and expert interviews. These methods are framed around a longue durée approach, combining elements of event and process with an analysis of historical discourses in an effort to uncover the long-standing and slowly changing relationships between people and extreme events.

Part of Bath Spa University’s Hazard, Risk and Disaster (HRD) Research Lecture Series 2020-21.

More information: https://www.bathspa.ac.uk/news-and-events/events/deja-vu-or-jamais-vu/