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StarKist Samoa Shutdown After Hit By Cyclone Wilmaff

27 January 2011 American Samoa
Source: Radio NZ

The freezer storage of StarKist Samoa’s tuna cannery in Satala was damaged by strong winds from Tropical Cyclone Wilma on Sunday and the company issued a statement that production was to be suspended  until further notice as the cannery works on addressing problems caused by the storm, which moved closer to Tonga yesterday.

“We are thankful that Cyclone Wilma has not caused any injuries to our employees and their families,” said Sestric yesterday. “The cyclone did, however, cause some damage to the StarKist facility, including roof panels.”

“StarKist has activated its Emergency Response Plan to assess and repair any damage, and we are estimating that production will be down for between several days and one week,” she added.

StarKist Samoa has asked all employees to keep listening to local radio stations for an update on when production will resume.