Residents of American Samoa were preparing for the arrival of Tropical CycloneRene Friday as the storm swirled towards the U.S. territory.As of 6:30 a.m. Friday, local time, there was a high surf warning in effectfor the north, east and southeast shores of Tutuila, Aunuu and Manu'aislands.
Hazardous surf of 15 to 18 feet has been generated by this storm.
Rene will continue to affect the region through Saturday night, localtime.
The Associated Press reports that all schools in American Samoa were closedFriday, and residents of the area were stocking up on emergency supplies inanticipation of the storm.
The United States Coast Guard also advised any vessels heading for thecapital of Pago Pago to reroute.
After affecting American Samoa Friday, Rene will pass through the TongaIslands this weekend. Winds in excess of 100 mph will affect at least some ofthe Tonga Islands later Saturday and Sunday.
The South Pacific has been hit hard by tropical cyclones in recent days. TheCook Islands were slammed by Cyclone Pat Tuesday. Sadly, 80 percent of theisland of Aitutaki was destroyed by 125-mph winds.
By AccuWeather.com's Gina Cherundolo and Senior Meteorologist DaveSamuhel
