Samoa’s National Emergency Operations Centre Activated Due to Severe Weather
- Samoa’s National Emergency Operations Centre activated amidst severe weather conditions.
- Acting CEO Vainalepa Toiata Apelu-Uili signed the emergency notice.
- Heavy rains led to school closures and non-essential services being shut down.
Samoa’s Emergency Operations Centre Activated in Crisis
In response to severe weather conditions affecting Samoa, the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) has been activated. The announcement regarding this activation was made by Vainalepa Toiata Apelu-Uili, who serves as the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. The NEOC will oversee coordinated efforts to manage the adverse weather conditions that have recently impacted daily life across the islands.
Closure of Schools and Transport Services
Schools across the islands were closed due to heavy rains, and public sector CEOs were granted discretion to shut down non-essential services starting Thursday morning. The Samoa Shipping Corporation announced the halting of ferry services between Upolu and Savaii, while all flights operated by Samoa Airways and Talofa Airways connecting the two Samoas have been suspended. Furthermore, the weekly voyage to American Samoa was also cancelled as a precautionary measure amidst the inclement weather.
To summarize, Samoa’s National Emergency Operations Centre has been activated to handle severe weather, resulting in school closures and the cancellation of transport services. This robust response demonstrates the commitment of the Samoan government to ensure public safety. Ongoing reports will likely further illustrate the impact of the severe weather conditions on the islands.
