High waves

Samoan meteorological services expect swell heights to remain between 2.5m and 3m but are expecting conditions to ease over the weekend.

Leading forecaster Aloali'i Liu said the unusual phenomenon is linked to climate change.

"I believe there is an effect of climate change as of now. Although it is happening within the dry season which is something that is a very rare occasion however, there was an event that was like this recently in 2018."

The system will continue to bring periods of heavy rain and strong gusty winds, high combined waves and swells, flooding to all major rivers and vulnerable locations.

“Heavy downpours with poor visibility, gusty winds, foggy and slippery roads over mountain passes and ranges, pooling near roadsides and waterways.

“Very rough seas and high surf, with possible coastal flooding to exposed locations. High potential for river over flows and landslides,” the latest weather report said.

Tropical Cyclone Zazu currently remains a Category 2 system at 2am (local time)