Samoa’s National Emergency Operations Centre Activates Due to Severe Weather
- Samoa activates its National Emergency Operations Centre amid severe weather.
- Heavy rains and strong winds leading to school closures and service disruptions.
- Samoa Shipping Corporation cancels ferry crossings and flights due to conditions.
NEOC Activation Due to Severe Weather Conditions
Samoa’s National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) has officially been activated in response to severe weather conditions impacting the region. This decision was confirmed through a notice that was issued on Thursday evening, signed by Vainalepa Toiata Apelu-Uili, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. The Ministry presides over the Disaster Advisory Committee, ensuring that necessary emergency protocols are undertaken during such conditions.
Widespread Disruptions Affect Schools and Transportation
The severe weather has caused significant disruption across Samoa, particularly with the heavy rains and strong winds prompting substantial measures to ensure public safety. Schools were closed, and public sector CEOs were granted discretionary authority to suspend non-essential services. In addition, the Samoa Shipping Corporation announced the suspension of ferry services between the islands of Upolu and Savaii, and the scheduled voyage to American Samoa was cancelled due to adverse conditions. Both airlines, Samoa Airways and Talofa Airways, were also forced to temporarily halt flights, impacting travel plans for many residents and visitors alike.
Land Transport Authority Works on Road Clearing
According to the Land Transport Authority (LTA), the situation on the roads has become increasingly precarious, with reports of excessive flooding and numerous road closures reported across Upolu and Savaii. LTA crews worked diligently into the night in an effort to clear roads obstructed by fallen trees and landslides, with their final operational report submitted shortly after midnight on Friday morning. The NEOC, which opened in October 2020, is situated at Tuanaimato and serves as a critical hub for coordinating emergency responses across the nation. The $6.4 million tala facility is outfitted with advanced technologies and essential support systems to enhance Samoa’s preparedness for natural disasters and emergencies.
In summary, the ongoing severe weather has prompted the activation of Samoa’s National Emergency Operations Centre as authorities scramble to address challenges posed by heavy rains and winds. Schools are closed, numerous transportation services have been suspended, and significant efforts are underway to ensure road safety and public health. As the situation develops, effective coordination through the NEOC will be pivotal to navigating the current challenges.
