Statement by the Press Secretary on Federal Assistance for Territory of American Samoa

The President today declared a major disaster exists in the Territory of American Samoa and ordered Federal aid to supplement Territory and local recovery efforts in the area struck by Tropical Cyclone Olaf, including high winds, high surf, and heavy rainfall, beginning on February 15, 2005, and continuing.

The President's action makes Federal funding available to the Territory of American Samoa and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct Federal assistance.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures for the Territory of American Samoa.

Representing the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Michael D. Brown, Under Secretary for Emergency Preparedness and Response, Department of Homeland Security, named Alexander S. Wells as the Federal Coordinating Officer for Federal recovery operations in the affected area.

The Agency said that additional forms of assistance may be made available after conditions allow damage surveys to be completed.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: FEMA (202) 646-4600.