PRESS RELEASE 05_2026
Vital FSM Petroleum Corporation Provides Update on Typhoon Impact and Service Restoration in Chuuk
FSM, 16 April 2026, 08:00
Vital FSM Petroleum Corporation (“Vital FSMPC”) provides the following update regarding the impact of the recent typhoon Sinlaku on our operations in Chuuk.
Safety and Initial Assessment
- All personnel have been accounted for, and initial inspections confirm that there have been no major fuel spills or environmental incidents reported at this time. Detailed assessments are ongoing across all facilities.
- Our inspections over the past 48 hours indicate that our terminal, aviation depot, and Tonoas facilities have sustained significant operational and infrastructure impacts, affecting our ability to safely conduct normal operations.
Current Actions Underway
- Restoration efforts are now actively underway. Vital FSMPC is mobilizing additional personnel, equipment, and critical spare parts to Chuuk to support recovery operations.
- A fuel cargo vessel is scheduled to arrive in Chuuk on 16 April 2026. Safe discharge of this cargo remains a priority, subject to port access, safety verification, and operational readiness.
Power Generation Status
- The Tonoas Power Plant (TPP) has been inspected and is ready to generate power. However, power generation will commence once the Chuuk Public Utility Corporation (CPUC) completes safety inspections and confirms the integrity of the distribution network.
Service Disruptions
- Due to the current conditions, Vital FSMPC advises that the following services in Chuuk are temporarily unavailable:
- Aviation refueling
- Marine bunkering
- Retail fuel deliveries to service stations
- These services are expected to remain unavailable for at least the next 48 hours, subject to ongoing safety and access assessments.
Restoration Timeline
- Vital FSMPC is working toward the following indicative restoration timeframes:
- Within 72 hours: Partial restoration of terminal operations, enabling controlled fuel access
- Within 14 days: Full restoration of normal operations across all services
- All timelines remain subject to safety conditions, infrastructure access, and successful completion of repairs.
Priority Supply Commitment
- During the restoration phase, available fuel supplies will be prioritized to support:
- Emergency and response services
- Power generation and utilities
- Critical infrastructure and essential community needs
- Partial restoration means that fuel products will be available from the terminal; however, operating hours and access may be restricted due to ongoing recovery activities.
Community Commitment
- Vital FSMPC recognizes the critical importance of reliable fuel supply to the Chuuk community, particularly during this recovery period.
- We are working closely with government authorities, utilities, and key stakeholders to restore services safely and as quickly as possible.
- We appreciate the community’s patience and cooperation during this time.
Further Updates
- Further updates will be provided within the next 24 hours, or as verified information becomes available.
For more information, please contact us via Telephone number 921-4680 or via email: PetroCorp@fsmpc.com.
