The Samoa Fire and Emergency Services Authority (SFESA) has successfully responded to two separate bush fire incidents in Savai‘i, including a recurring fire at Samalaeulu and another at Falealupo.
The Samalaeulu fire was first reported at approximately 11:57am on Friday, 14 August 2026, prompting the immediate deployment of firefighters from the Maota and Asau Fire Stations.
Dry vegetation and windy conditions contributed to the rapid spread of the fire. The incident followed an earlier bush fire at the same location on Saturday, 8 August, before the fire reignited on Saturday, 15 August, requiring continued suppression, containment and monitoring operations.
Reinforcements Deployed From Upolu
Due to the heightened fire risk and recurring nature of the Samalaeulu fire, the SFESA Commissioner authorised additional firefighting resources from Upolu on Saturday, 15 August.
The reinforcement team included 12 senior firefighters, one water tanker truck, one firefighting truck, additional firefighting equipment, logistical support, as well as corporate and media support personnel.
All off-duty Savai‘i firefighters were also called back to work to strengthen the response and maintain operational readiness while awaiting the arrival of the Upolu team.
SFESA Fire Safety personnel also used drone technology to provide aerial visibility of the affected area and assist with operational coordination.
The Upolu team worked alongside Savai‘i-based crews throughout the weekend, strengthening fire suppression, containment and hotspot monitoring operations.
Separate Bush Fire at Falealupo
While operations continued at Samalaeulu, SFESA was also alerted to a separate bush fire at Falealupo.
Firefighters from the Asau Fire Station were immediately deployed to assist with suppression efforts and assess the situation.
Commander Maiava from Maota was also directed to liaise with the Village Council representative to support local coordination and ensure continued monitoring of the affected area.
The additional resources deployed to Savai‘i strengthened SFESA’s capacity and emergency readiness to manage both incidents across the island.
Samalaeulu Fire Fully Contained
Combined firefighting teams from Savai‘i and Upolu carried out sustained suppression, containment and hotspot cooling operations at Samalaeulu.
The fire was fully contained and extinguished at approximately 5:00pm on Sunday, 16 August, with no further threat identified to nearby properties or the community.
SFESA commended all personnel involved in the operation, including the 12 firefighters from Upolu, Savai‘i-based crews, Fire Safety personnel, corporate and media support staff, and others who contributed to the response.
The Authority also acknowledged the cooperation and support of the Ali‘i ma Faipule and communities of Samalaeulu and Falealupo throughout the operations.
SFESA extended its appreciation to the families and relatives of firefighters for their prayers, encouragement and support while their loved ones were deployed away from home.
Public Urged to Take Precautions
The Commissioner has reiterated SFESA’s previous public safety advisory on fire prevention and urged members of the public to exercise extreme caution during the current dry conditions.
The public is strongly advised to avoid burning rubbish, vegetation or other materials in dry and windy conditions, as fires can spread rapidly and become difficult to control.
SFESA said it remains committed to protecting lives, property, communities and the environment and will continue to monitor fire risks across Samoa.
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