Cyclone Wilma Update: American Samoa response

We've been closely monitoring Tropical Cyclone Wilma, which passed over American Samoa on Sunday. According to the National Weather Service, a Wind Advisory remains in effect, today, for Tutuila, Aunuu and Manua. A wind advisory means winds of 30 mph or higher are expected.  Occasional showers and isolated thunderstorms are forecast through tonight, and scattered showers are expected through Saturday.

A single shelter remains open on the island and local response agencies, including the American Red Cross, are addressing immediate needs.  No significant damage or casualties have been reported.

A FEMA liaison officer has been deployed to support coordination at the American Samoa Emergency Operations Center in Pago Pago, and FEMA staff in our region IX office in Oakland, California and our Pacific Area Office in Honolulu, are also in constant communication with territorial officials.  Although there has been no request for federal disaster assistance yet, we have teams ready to deploy with help if needed.  FEMA has more than a dozen recovery staff on-island for post Tsunami rebuild, and they are another asset available should that become necessary.

As American Samoa begins to assess damages and starts the process of recovery from Wilma it is an important reminder that tropical storms aren’t limited to hurricane season. Tropical storms and other types of severe weather can occur year-round.  FEMA encourages individuals to do your part to be prepared. If you haven’t already, visit www.Ready.gov and learn how you can protect your homes, families and communities from severe storms and other hazards.

For local updates of the storm on Twitter, follow the National Parks Service of American Samoa.