Tonga: Further volcanic activity likely at Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai Volcano as of Jan. 18 /update 5

Event

Further volcanic activity remains likely at the Hunga Tonga-Hunga-Ha'apai Volcano as of Jan. 18 following a major eruption Jan. 15. The eruption triggered various tsunami warnings, advisories, and statements across the Pacific, including in Tonga; authorities have since lifted all warnings. Tongan police have confirmed two fatalities; communications remain interrupted and the death toll is likely to rise over the coming days. Another major eruption reportedly occurred early Jan. 17; however, the event did not trigger any tsunami warnings.

Due to communication disruptions, accurate damage and casualty reports remain unavailable, particularly outside of the capital, as of Jan. 18. Nuku'alofa's north-facing areas are particularly impacted. Major damage has been reported in the Ha’apai islands due to tsunami waves of 5-10 meters (15-30 feet) reaching 500 meters (1,640 feet) inland as well as in Tongatapu, with several resorts and houses destroyed. Telecommunications, power, and internet services disruptions in Tonga have been ongoing since Jan. 15; restoration efforts are underway with telephone networks already restored. Reports also indicate damage to the only undersea communications cable connecting Tonga to the rest of the world via Fiji and the undersea cable connecting the islands in Tonga; repairs could take around two weeks. Fuaʻamotu International Airport (TBU) did not sustain damage in the eruptions but the airport is not fully operational due to heavy ashfall in the area, hampering relief efforts. Authorities may evacuate people from the outer islands due to damage to houses and difficult conditions. Australia and New Zealand dispatched surveillance flights Jan. 17 to assess the damage.

Ash reportedly covers much of Tonga while also affecting Fiji, New Caledonia, and Vanuatu. Ash has reportedly contaminated the fresh water supply in Tonga.

Additional eruptions could cause gas emission, seismic activity, ash clouds, and landslides in the surrounding area. Further significant eruptions could also cause additional tsunami events. Air, maritime, and ground travel disruptions are likely to persist for several days. Volcanic activity may also impact air quality in the surrounding area. 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. Acid rain is possible over Tonga and nearby countries due to the high sulfur dioxide concentrations in the atmosphere.

The volcano is around 65 km (40 miles) north-northwest of Nuku'alofa on an uninhabited island.

Advice

Monitor local emergency broadcast channels. Charge essential electronic equipment when power is available. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Reconfirm all transport arrangements. Review contingency plans. Shelter in place. Ensure windows and doors are closed. Minimize exposure to the ash cloud. Carry masks or face coverings and observe other precautions to avoid ash inhalation if operating in the affected area.

Resources

National Emergency Management Office Facebook
Tonga Meteorological Service
Tonga Government Portal Facebook
US Tsunami Warning System