Another major catastrophe has struck the Pacific after a major earthquake struck the Samoan Islands at 6:48 AM yesterday (local time) after which a tsunami struck the American territory causing widespread damage. President Barack Obama has declared a major disaster in the Territory of American Samoa, according to a White House press release. The president also ordered federal aid to supplement recovery efforts.

According to reports, towering waves struck the island and swept people and property, flattening villages. People and cars were swept into the sea
by the big waves while others fled to higher ground trying to avoid a second wave that might follow. Many remained there for hours fearful that another tsunami might strike.

Due to the magnitude of the earthquake, tsunami warnings were issued in Hawaii, California, Japan and even as far as Hawaii. But these tsunami warnings were later cancelled. The quake, which reached a depth of 20 miles, is not expected to generate a tsunami that would reach the west coast of the United States or Canada.

Stay tuned for more earthquake and tsunami news from Samoa (Samoan Islands). Or watch the Samoa tsunami and earthquake videos/photos/pics posted below. As of this writing, 47 people have been confirmed dead while scores are still missing. (Photo source: Ardieroque / Twitpic)

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