Plantations Damaged

in Samoa

Prom Our Own Correspondent APIA, March 13.

ON Saturday and Sunday, March 1 and 2, a severe “blow” of almost hurri cane force, accompanied by torrential rain, struck Western Samoa.

The disturbance started with strong southerly winds, then gradually the storm centre shifted until Apia received the full force. Wind velocity was recorded at the Observatory at 63 m.p.h. Considerable damage was done to banana and cocoa plantations. Roads around Apia were blocked by fallen trees in all directions, though no casualties were reported.

Heavy rain fell for 36 hours, and over 16 inches were recorded. Owing to the low rainfall average during the past 12

months the rivers were able to carry off the water; in fact, some watercourses were flowing for the first time for over 18 months.

The hydro scheme was temporarily out of action, and the town had a full “black out” for one night.

By Monday morning, the 3rd, the force of the “blow” had spent itself. Since then Apia has suffered from extremely hot and sultry weather, occasionally in terrupted by showers of rain.

Banana Quotas Will Be Filled

THOUGH much damage was done to banana plantations, particularly in the hills and on the east coast, it may not be so serious as first reports in dicated. We hear that Fiji and Niue suffered worse than us and this may result in Samoa being called upon to make up any shortage in their shipping quotas. Agents here expect that we can do this, as in recent months a large sur plus of fruit had been offered for shipment.

A big consignment of fruit was waiting on the wharf to be loaded on an overseas steamer when the storm hit Apia and the delay caused by the “blow” allowed the bananas to ripen. Most of the ship ment had to be left behind when the vessel sailed.

It was decided to distribute the fruit gratis to residents who cared to pay transport. Thus over 3,000,000 bananas were carted away. This was a bad loss to growers, who, besides losing their fruit, had also to pay the transport from plan tation to wharf.