A case study into the preparedness of white-water tourism to severe climatic events in Southern Africa

Extreme weather events pose a significant threat to outdoor tourism globally, as a result of their rapid onset and challenges in forecasting. These threats are particularly concerning for countries of the global South, due to their reliance on tourism and their relatively low adaptive capacity. White-water sports are especially vulnerable to climate variability as they are reliant on predictable river patterns. This article is an exploratory investigation into the experiences and perceptions of white-water tourism operators using the case study of South Africa and Namibia regarding the threats of extreme weather and climate change. It was found that extreme and unpredictable weather patterns are significantly impacting operators in this region. Many operators are thus acutely aware of the impacts of extreme weather and climate change, and have begun to implement adaptation measures. The current impacts of extreme weather associated with climatic changes and awareness within the white-water tourism sector provide a contribution to future discussions of tourism and climate change.