A powerful Category 5 cyclone, Olaf stuck American Samoa causing heavy damage although exact estimates are unknown.

[1] During February 10, this area of low pressure spawned two systems, which were classified as the eight and ninth tropical disturbances of the 2004-05 season by the Fiji Meteorological Service (FMS).

The low wind shear and warm water temperatures allowed Olaf to undergo rapid intensification.

On February 15, the barometric pressure fell to 930 mbar as Olaf reached Category 4 status.

On February 16, satellite imagery depicted a well-defined eye as Olaf strengthened into a Category 5 cyclone.

Moving at 10 mph (16 km/h), the cyclone maintained Category 5 status as the eye passed 15 miles east of Ta'u, American Samoa.

[2] On February 18, an approaching upper-level trough to the south, and strong wind shear caused Olaf to weaken as the storm rapidly moved southeastward.

Forecasters predicted that Olaf will bring storm surge and inland flooding and strong winds.

Although the eye of Olaf never made landfall, several weather stations reported sustained winds of 75–125 mph (121–201 km/h).

In the Manua Islands, the storm destroyed several seaside homes, ruined crops and left thousands without power.

[7] Olaf then struck the Cook Islands which were already reeling form the impact of Cyclones Meena and Nancy earlier.

The declaration allowed residents and local governments in the American Samoa to receive federal aid.

The French government and the United Nations also assisted in the relief effort by sending soldiers from Tahiti and providing more aid to the stricken residents.