27 Feb 2005

Cyclone Percy stops emergency supplies being delivered to Manu'a

11:28 am on 27 February 2005

Cyclone Percy has halted the delivery of much needed emergency supplies to the Manu'a Islands in American Samoa.

The cyclone is now moving away from the Tokelau island group, and heading towards the outer islands of American Samoa.

On its current track, Swains Island is expected to feel its full effects tonight, and then the Manu'a island group tomorrow.

Essential supplies of food, first aid kits and building materials were being sent over from Pago Pago to the Manu'a Islands, after it was damaged by Cyclone Olaf last week.

Our correspondent in American Samoa, Monica Miller, says the weather has put a stop to deliveries, and people in Manu'a have to do what they can to prepare for Cyclone Percy.

"Some of them have not been able to do any repairs, because the supplies have to come over from Pago, the main island Tutuila for that. So although you have a tent or a tarp covering your home, just a small wind would get that off in a tuff. Its not looking very good for the people in Manu'a. "

Our correspondent in American Samoa, Monica Miller