Heavy rain has triggered floods and landslides in Samoa, in particular in areas around the capital of Apia.
Apria recorded around 85 mm of rain in 24 hours to 17 December. Media reported the Vaisigano river broke its banks. Flooding swamped roads, causing severe disruption to traffic in the city. The Disaster Management Office called for extreme caution as the heavy rain continued and urged residents of some low-lying areas to evacuate their homes.
Samoa’s Public Service Commission advised all employees except for essential services employees to stay home.
In a statement of 18 December, the Samoa Meteorology Division said “The active convergence zone with embedded heavy downpours, thunderstorms and gusty winds remains slow moving over Samoa from the west. Periods of rain with heavy falls and thunderstorms as well as gusty winds are expected to affect the island chain through tomorrow. Increasing combine waves and swells of more than 4 metres are expected to impact coastal to open waters of Samoa tonight and will generate very rough seas and high surf for all of Samoa.”
Social Media
There goes that new Moamoa bridge. pic.twitter.com/OexiDoPPRo
— Tobias (@TobiasIsWeird) December 17, 2020
Afega Bridge update from LTA
Afega Bridge currently unsafe to pass by any vehicle. Strongly advise to avoid this area and for all passersby to be vigilant by staying away due to strong water flow.#cycloneseason2020_2021 pic.twitter.com/KMr1R2yNxn
— DMO Samoa (@DMO_Samoa) December 17, 2020
Observed high inundation levels along Taufusi area towards down town Apia Town Clock.
We advise the travelling public to be vigilant and drive slow. Avoid these areas as we continue to experience heavy rainfall.
Call 991 or 997 for emergency services. pic.twitter.com/b6ZKcdBkhy
— DMO Samoa (@DMO_Samoa) December 17, 2020
