The public has been advised to expect a further deterioration in weather conditions over the next few days.

The Samoa Meteorological Division has issued a wind advisory for all eastern to southern districts and the highlands. A coastal flood advisory is also in effect for the south coast and a small craft advisory remains for all of Samoa’s coastal to open waters.

A Scientific Officer with the Meteorological Division, Silipa Mulitalo, told the Samoa Observer that clear skies are not expected until the intense high pressure system – which is centred northeast of New Zealand and continues to direct fresh to strong southeast winds over Samoa – passes over the country.

Currently, the country is experiencing isolated showers and few thunderstorms, coupled with strong gusty southeast winds at times experienced on both Upolu and Savai’i islands. There are more scattered showers and fresh winds expected on Thursday. 

According to the latest observations from the Meteorological Division, there are southeast winds of 45-55 kph affecting elevated areas along with the east and southern locations which are more exposed to the prevailing wind flow conditions. 

The Meteorological Division has also advised the public of waves and swells of 3.5 to 4 metres which are driven by strong wind and could initiate coastal flooding on the south coast.