Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — A man experienced a harrowing ordeal when he was swept out to sea by strong currents while fishing earlier this week in Faga’alu. Fortunately, he was successfully rescued by the Marine Patrol Division of the Department of Search and Rescue.

Marine Patrol Chief Ina Ulberg confirmed the team received an urgent call from the Department of Public Safety at approximately 3:45 PM, alerting them to the situation. Acting swiftly, the Marine Patrol personnel deployed to the area and reached the distressed fisherman, who was located just behind Matafao Elementary School. The team safely brought him back to shore, ensuring his well-being.

“Safety is our top priority,” Ulberg emphasized.

“We strongly urge the public to closely follow weather advisories and take these warnings seriously. "Weather conditions can change rapidly and unpredictably, which can pose significant risks. "Our primary goal is to ensure that everyone is informed and prepared to protect themselves and their loved ones during these potentially hazardous situations.”