The heavy downpour in recent days culminated with roads around the Fugalei and Pesega area becoming impassable on Friday forcing motorists to risk driving through the flooded roads.

Vehicles with low ground clearance had to turn back with only four-wheel-drives and high ground clearance trucks able to drive through the flooded roads to get into town.

Members of the public struggled with the knee-height waters in front of Frankie Supermarket as they went about to do their shopping before heading home.

Due to the poor weather condition, the authorities had to issue notices again on Friday advising of evacuation sites for residents in the Apia urban area, should the situation deteriorate and require immediate evacuation. The evacuation sites were located at the N.U.S. compound at Vaivase; the ADRA SDA Hall at Lalovaea; Gym 2 at Tuanaimato; and the SSFA Multipurpose Gym at Tuanaimato. 

The National Emergency Operation Center (N.E.O.C.) also issued a statement on Friday evening advising the public to take precaution to ensure the safety and protection of families, especially children, the elderly and people with disabilities.

“The public is also reminded to avoid river banks and flooded areas and stay alert, watchful and observant of possible risks and threats,” read the N.E.O.C. statement. “Boiling water before drinking and observing good personal hygiene are highly recommended.

“The relevant authorities continue to monitor major water levels, rivers and roads to ensure safety and security of our people and resources.”

The Samoa Meteorology Division (M.E.T.) issued heavy rain and flood warning again on Saturday and pointed to a convergence zone responsible for the deteriorating weather conditions.

“A convergence zone associated with heavy rain and gusty winds remains within the vicinity of the islands, bringing scattered rain, thunderstorms and wind gusts reaching 60 km/h.

“The system is forecasted to remain over the forecast zone for the next 12 hours, maintaining rainy and windy weather conditions. 

“Therefore, the potential for Flooding and Landslides remain very high for vulnerable areas.”

According to the M.E.T. advisory, the potential impacts will include heavy downpours with poor visibility and strong gusty winds, foggy and slippery roads over mountain passes and ranges, pooling near roadsides and waterways. Other potential impacts include river overflows and possible landslides.