MEDIA RELEASE

“Our prayers go out to the people of American Samoa and Samoa, especially the families of those who lost their lives due to the devastating earthquake and tsunami. We acknowledge how difficult it must be for the Samoan community in Hawai‘i as they await news of their loved ones.

“The State of Hawaii is assisting Governor Tulafono in the recovery effort, including medical assistance, communications support and engineers.

“While we were fortunate that a tsunami did not affect Hawaii, today’s tsunami watch and the unusual ocean currents and sea level changes in Hawaii coastal waters are reminders of the importance for all Hawaii residents and businesses to be prepared and to heed the warning of civil defense and safety officials.

“Today’s events in Samoa come as our neighbors in the Philippines are struggling to recover from deadly flooding and landslides in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Ketsana. The Hawaii National Guard is assisting in Philippine relief efforts, and the people of Hawaii are once again opening their hearts with generous donations to help the victims.”