South Pacific Islands: Strong wind, high waves forecast in American Samoa, Cook Islands, French Polynesia, and Samoa through at least July 22; disruptions ongoing

Event

High waves are forecast across American Samoa, Cook Islands, French Polynesia, and Samoa through at least July 22. As of July 20, the Cook Islands Meteorological Service has issued strong wind and damaging heavy swell warnings for the Southern Cook Islands. A coastal inundation warning is in place for the southern coastal areas of the Southern Cook Islands.

The National Weather Service has issued a high surf advisory for all south and east-facing shores of American Samoa through at least July 22; surf of 3.3-4.3 meters (11-14 feet) is likely. A small craft advisory is also in effect. Meteo-France has issued yellow (lowest level on a three-tier scale) strong wind and swell warnings across southern French Polynesia. The Samoa Meteorological Services has issued marine and wind advisories through at least July 20. Officials could update and possibly extend the coverage of weather alerts over the coming days.

The area is still recovering from damage caused by large swell and flooding from July 14. Reports indicate that high waves and flooding damaged structures in Rarotonga and parts of the Pa Enua in Cook Islands; recovery efforts are underway. Authorities declared a state of emergency in American Samoa July 16 due to damage. King tides flooded homes on Aunu'u July 14-15. Roads and sea walls on eastern Tutuila were extensively damaged. The Pago Pago International Airport (PPG) was temporarily closed July 14-15 due to tidal waves damaging the perimeter fence and bringing in debris onto the airfield. Authorities also declared a state of natural disaster in French Polynesia; port structures and roads were damaged in the Marquesas, the Tuamotus, and the Austral Islands.

Hazardous Conditions
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed or a lack of stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding, strong winds, or landslides impact utility networks.

Transport
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters. Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations or close beach fronts if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions.

Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities and some employees' inability to reach work sites.

Advice

Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.

Resources

Cook Islands Meteorological Service
Meteo-France French Polynesia
National Weather Service
Samoa Meteorological Service