Samoa Activates National Emergency Operations Centre Due to Severe Weather
- Samoa’s National Emergency Operations Centre activated due to severe weather.
- Closure of schools and public sector services announced across the islands.
- Travel disruptions include cancelled flights and ferry services between islands.
- Land Transport Authority reports flooding and road closures in Upolu and Savaii.
- NEOC facility, established in 2020, equipped for effective disaster response.
Samoa’s NEOC Responds to Severe Weather Alerts
On Thursday evening, Samoa activated its National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) in response to severe weather conditions sweeping across the nation. The decision was made public through a notice signed by Vainalepa Toiata Apelu-Uili, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, which supervises the Disaster Advisory Committee. This prompt action reflects the seriousness with which the government treats the safety and welfare of its citizens amid natural disasters.
Travel Disruptions and Public Safety Measures
The impacts of the extreme weather event were immediate and significant. Schools were closed, allowing students to stay home, while public sector Chief Executive Officers were given the discretion to shut down non-essential services. Travel disruptions were widespread; both Samoa Airways and Talofa Airways announced the suspension of flights between Upolu and Savaii, and ferry service between the two islands was halted. In addition, Samoa Shipping Corporation confirmed the cancellation of the ferry crossings as conditions worsened.
Land Transport Authority Dealing with Flooding Issues
The Land Transport Authority (LTA) reported excessive flooding and numerous road closures were logged throughout Upolu and Savaii islands. LTA worked diligently through the night to clear blocked roads caused by fallen trees and landslides. In the face of these challenges, the NEOC, which opened in October 2020, stands ready to coordinate and support the national emergency responses. This facility was designed with state-of-the-art technology and includes a backup generator and independent water supply system to tackle natural disasters effectively.
In summary, Samoa’s National Emergency Operations Centre has been activated to manage severe weather impacts, including the closing of schools and suspension of travel services. The proactive measures involve the coordination of numerous agencies dealing with flooding and road hazards. This response highlights the importance of having robust emergency systems in place to ensure public safety during natural calamities.
