Area Forecast Discussion
Issued by NWS Pago Pago
Issued by NWS Pago Pago
279 FXZS60 NSTU 170048 AFDPPG Area Forecast Discussion National Weather Service Pago Pago AS 148 PM SST Sun Aug 16 2026 .Short term... A ridge of high pressure remains over the American Samoa islands, which continues to provide below average rainfall for the territory. Satellite imagery shows a few low level clouds and cirrus clouds (thin and wispy), but no rainfall in the region. These conditions are expected to continue through Tuesday. Scattered showers (30% chance) remains in the forecast tonight, while isolated showers (20% chance) for Monday. Winds also become light and variable on Monday as the ridge weakens before becoming a light easterly trade wind breeze on Tuesday. More sun than clouds are anticipated with temperature back to around average. .Long term... Another ridge moves over the territory by Wednesday, but is anticipated to be stronger than the aforementioned ridge. This will likely increase southeasterly trades up to around 20 to 25 mph by late in the week. As the winds increase on Tuesday night and Wednesday, this will increase the risk of rain. If any showers occur, however, flash flooding is not likely. The trade wind pattern will likely stay for the rest of the week and weekend. If any rainfall occurs, it would be in the passing form with temperatures falling back to below average as cooler air from the south advects into the region. && .Marine... As winds continue to decrease with no significant swell moving through the American Samoa coastal waters, seas continue to ease. As of midday, the PacIOOS buoy to the east of Aunu`u shows seas around 6 feet and to the west of Tutuila around 4.5 feet. Seas are forecast continue easing through tomorrow as light and variable winds are forecast. Seas will be generally smoother than normal through early Tuesday. By later Tuesday, winds slowly begin to increase but may sharply increase to a southeasterly fresh to strong breeze by Wednesday and remain through the rest of the week. This will cause seas to build and may reach up to 12 feet by Wednesday night through the rest of the week. Therefore, expect Small Craft Advisory conditions beginning Wednesday. && .PPG WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES... NONE && $$ LaPlante