(American Samoa, Friday, August 5, 2022) – With peak Pacific tropical storm season approaching, it’s vital for the residents of American Samoa to remain vigilant in order to protect their homes and families from flooding. American Samoa was fortunate to experience a calm 2021 storm season, but residents shouldn’t let their guard down in 2022.

Having a flood insurance policy is the best way for residents to protect your home when flooding occurs. Just one inch of water can cause roughly $25,000 dollars in damage, and most homeowners and renters insurance does not cover flood damage.

Veronica Verde, FEMA Region 9, External Affairs Officer, explains what American Samoa residents can do now to ensure they’re covered this tropical weather season.

SOUNDBITE #1:

WITH TROPICAL STORM SEASON UNDERWAY, IT’S IMPORTANT TO KNOW YOUR FLOOD RISK. DID YOU KNOW THAT MOST HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE AND RENTERS INSURANCE WON’T COVER THE COST OF FLOOD DAMAGE? HAVING A FLOOD INSURANCE POLICY PROVIDES YOU WITH PEACE OF MIND SO YOU HAVE ONE LESS THING TO WORRY ABOUT IF A FLOOD DAMAGES YOUR HOME OR BELONGINGS.

SOUNDBITE #2:

ARE YOU PREPARED THIS TROPICAL STORM SEASON? WHILE YOU CAN’T STOP A CYCLONE, YOU CAN TAKE ACTION AND PROTECT YOUR FAMILY AND PROPERTY. THAT’S WHERE FLOOD INSURANCE COMES IN. HAVING A FLOOD INSURANCE POLICY HELPS PEOPLE RECOVER FASTER AND IT’S THE BEST WAY TO PROTECT THE LIFE YOU’VE BUILT.

For more information visit http://www.floodsmart.gov.