ASG closed operations at 1 PM today, after Governor Lemanu Peleti Mauga declared that American Samoa is in a state of emergency due to severe weather conditions; resulting in damages to roads, infrastructure, property, and coastal villages.
The Governor ordered that all government offices be closed, and normal activities suspended starting at 1:00 PM.
Furthermore, the Pago Pago International Airport will remain closed due to damage from heavy waves to the runway. The Hawaiian Airlines flight, scheduled for tonight has also been canceled and will resume as soon as the runway can reopen safely. Hawaiian Airlines is hoping the flight would operate tomorrow during the day.
The Emergency Operations Center has been activated and will be standing by to assist the public. Call (684) 699-3800/ 782-4059, if you need help.
“I appreciate your cooperation during this untimely event, and I ask that you remain vigilant and keep your families safe,” urged Governor Lemanu.
ASG is also closed tomorrow for Manu’a Day.
Message from Congresswoman
Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata said in a statement this afternoon, “I am praying for the people of our territory, from Tutuila and Aunu’u to Manu’a, who have been impacted by the coastal flooding that occurred throughout the past day.
“I hope that the damage has been limited, and I will do all I can to support our people, especially those living in coastal villages. This is yet another reason why we should improve the resilience of our infrastructure against climate change and natural disasters, and I will continue to push for more federal funding to do just that.”
“In the meantime, I urge everyone to be safe and follow safety instructions. I stand ready to assist in any way I can from the federal level.”
Photos & video by Desiree Washington/Fatumafuti
