Area Forecast Discussion
Issued by NWS Pago Pago
Issued by NWS Pago Pago
328 FXZS60 NSTU 190018 AFDPPG Area Forecast Discussion National Weather Service Pago Pago AS 118 PM SST Tue Mar 18 2025 .Discussion... Thunderstorms continue to surround the Samoa Island due to a lingering mid-level trough, visible on satellite data. While fair weather is currently experienced over the Islands, the atmosphere remains unsettled and moist, creating favorable conditions for thunderstorm development. Expect numerous showers and scattered thunderstorms today through Friday, with heavy downpour at times. Gusty winds may occur from a downdraft when a thunderstorm dissipates nearby. Additionally, the Islands may experience a break in showers after thunderstorms diminish. Hence, the potential for flash flooding is low for this duration. On Saturday, the aforementioned trough will move south. Expect light east winds and isolated showers to persist through the end of the forecast period. && .Marine... Latest wave heights at the Aunu`u PacIOOS buoy are currently around 8 feet, while the King-Poloa PacIOOS buoy observed waves near 6 feet. The sudden increase at the Aunu`u buoy is likely due to a strong downdraft from a thunderstorm nearby. However, winds have diminished within the past hour, so seas are expected to follow this trend. A High Surf Advisory was canceled for north-facing shores earlier today, as wave heights and peak periods dropped below the threshold. However, models suggests another strong swell from the south on Wednesday. It is uncertain whether a High Surf Advisory will be issued for the south shore, so further observations will provide more clarity. A small craft advisory remains in effect through Friday due to developing thunderstorms associated with the trough. .PPG WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES... Small Craft Advisory && $$ TM