Pacific / American Samoa

FEMA launches helpline for Asam cyclone aid

11:43 am on 18 April 2018

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), has launched a helpline in American Samoa for people still needing assistance after February's Cyclone Gita.

Damage from Cyclone Gita in American Samoa. Photo: Twiiter/ Aumua Amata

A total of 387 homes had been reported to have been destroyed during the storm and thousands of others damaged.

There are now close to 100 officials from FEMA, the US Small Business Administration and other federal partners in the territory, helping with the Gita recovery.

The Small Business Administration has approved more than $US1 million dollars in federal low interest loans in the territory, while FEMA has given more than $US10 million worth of financial assistance to those in need.

FEMA's Victor Inge said the Disaster Recovery Center remained open for registrations for those wanting federal assistance during the Flag Day public holiday today.

But he said there are also other ways to seek assistance.

"People are starting to have questions about their registrations and what we have now is a Gita helpline," he said.

"So if you have got questions about your registration and you think you need to go back to the Disaster Recovery Center, we think we may be able to save you a trip."