22 Dec 2021 | 01:47 PM UTC
Tonga: Volcanic activity ongoing at Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai Volcano Dec. 22; authorities issue nationwide acid rain warning
Authorities issue acid rain warning across Tonga due to ongoing volcanic activity at Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai Dec. 22. Confirm flights.
Event
Volcanic activity is ongoing at the Hunga Tonga-Hunga-Ha'apai Volcano Dec. 22 after an eruptive episode began 20:30 Dec. 19. The volcano is located around 65 km (40 miles) north-northwest of Nuku'alofa. Although the eruption is forecast to have a relatively low impact on the environment and the island the volcano is located on is uninhabited, the eruption emitted a gaseous ash cloud 18 km (11 miles) into the atmosphere, causing health and aviation concerns.
Late Dec. 21 the Tongan Geological Service advised residents to protect their water supplies due to potential acid rain. All Tongan residents have been advised to remove guttering systems from rainwater storage tanks due to the potential for rain to be contaminated by the ash cloud emission. Exposure to acid rain can also cause itchiness and irritation to the skin and blurred and discoloration of vision.
The ash cloud spread over much of the Ha'apai and Tongapatu island groups Dec. 19-20 before reaching the Vava'u Islands Dec. 20-21. An aviation code red was issued following the eruption, warning airlines to avoid the area and resulting in the cancellation of an Air New Zealand flight from Auckland to Nuku'alofa Dec. 21.
Additional eruptions could cause gas emission, low-level seismic activity, ash clouds, and landslides in the surrounding area. The volcano could emit gas and ash clouds over the coming days.
Transport
Transport disruptions are possible in the surrounding area, especially if a significant eruptive event occurs. Fine particulate matter ejected from the volcano could pose a hazard to flights in the surrounding airspace.
Health
Volcanic activity may impact air quality in the surrounding area. Air quality could become a concern, particularly in areas near the crater, following an explosive event. Individuals in the region - especially those with underlying pulmonary conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or lung cancers - may experience difficulty breathing and could suffer from lower tolerance to physical exertion.
Advice
Confirm flights if a large eruption occurs. Plan for possible transportation disruptions if operating in the region in the coming days. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving; due to reduced visibility, drive cautiously in areas affected by ash. Carry masks or face coverings and observe other precautions to avoid ash inhalation if operating in the affected area.
