Cyclone intensifies

By Lanuola Tusani Tupufia 23 April 2016, 12:00AM

Tropical Cyclone Amos is expected to be felt in parts of Samoa this afternoon – and is expected to intensify as it develops into a category 3 cyclone tonight.  

Speaking to the Weekend Observer last night, Senior Scientific Officer at the Meteorology Office, Eseese Ah Ken, said the current track of Amos continues to move eastwards of Samoa. 

“It continues to intensify and will be relocated about 423kilometers from Apia around 7am tomorrow (today) morning,” said Mr. Ah Ken. 

“Based on our forecast there will be scattered showers with thunderstorms and winds. By Saturday and Sunday the system is pretty close and might be over us. 

“We expect some heavy rains and expect winds to strengthen from 45 – 55 miles per hour and possibly increase to 65miles per hour.”

Asked to explain, Mr. Ah Ken said by today Amos will be category 3 and it will have “hurricane force that can bring a house down.”

It’s expected to strengthen.

According to the Senior Scientist, every area is vulnerable. 

“Based on analysis, when the storm falls it will cover all of Samoa,” he explained.  “Wherever you are you will still be affected by storm force winds. 

“Based on experience heavy rain mainly affects low lying areas like town which mostly be flooded from heavy rain and from observation of the system there is a lot of rain associated with the T.C. (tropical cyclone). 

“Also expect landslide in eastern side where highlands and potential impacts of river overflow. 

Potential impact would be flying objects based on strength of winds.” 

Flood advisory on low lying areas and winds advisory are in effect and remains in Samoa with possible heavy raining. 

Mr. Ah Ken pointed out there are also warnings in effect for small crafts and fishing alias.  

The public is advised to stay inside their homes and look for strong shelters. 

“In case there are any damages to your home from the strong winds find a solid shelter,” he urged. 

“Make sure you have torches in case the power goes off and prepare warm clothes and have food and water prepared and stored.”

Mr. Ah Ken added a child previously died during times of cyclone because of wrong timing and planning. 

“Do shopping before cyclone and unless we you receive an official notice from authorities its over then it’s safe for you to leave. 

“There are people who leave the house when they see its fine outside but they might not know they are in the eye of the cyclone and they must understand the nature of cyclone.”

By Lanuola Tusani Tupufia 23 April 2016, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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