Purpose and Scope
Funding for this WA was provided in response to Tropical Cyclone Gita, which impacted American Samoa in February 2018. Gita generated destructive wind and torrential rainfall causing widespread power outages. Approximately 1,000 people were evacuated to 12 shelters. Multiple mudslides occurred, uprooting many trees, and the intense rainfall caused flash flooding in low lying areas and near small streams.
This assessment recognizes and builds on the inherent resilience of Pacific Islands cultures developed over thousands of years of oceanic living, and Fa’asamoa, the traditional way of governance. The intent of this WA is to provide recommendations both within and outside of USACE authorities that will help to rehabilitate and improve the resiliency of damaged infrastructure and natural resources, reducing risks to human life and property from future natural hazards in American Samoa. The WA assessed the drivers of economic, social, and environmental risks through engagement with the public and other federal and territorial agencies, subject matter expert consultation, and research with the most recent reports available.
Shared Vision Statement
Natural hazards including tropical cyclones, flooding, shoreline erosion, landslides, and tsunamis negatively impact communities, the environment, and the economy in American Samoa. Many of these hazards are expected to intensify with climate change. A collaborative systems approach between stakeholders is needed to address these interrelated issues, improve watershed management, and support community resilience.