14 Jan 2022 | 08:27 AM UTC
Tonga: Volcanic activity ongoing at Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai Volcano Jan. 14; authorities issue tsunami warning /update 1
Authorities issue tsunami warning across Tonga due to ongoing volcanic activity at Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai Jan. 14. Stay away from coast.
Event
Volcanic activity is ongoing at the Hunga Tonga-Hunga-Ha'apai Volcano late Jan. 14. The volcano is located around 65 km (40 miles) north-northwest of Nuku'alofa, and the island the volcano is located on is uninhabited. The eruption emitted a 20 km (12 miles) gaseous ash cloud into the atmosphere, causing health and aviation concerns. Authorities advise residents on the islands of Tongatapu, the islands of Ha'apai, and the Vava'u group to avoid going outdoors as much as possible, to wear masks when going outdoors, and cover rainwater reservoirs and rainwater harvesting systems.
Authorities have issued a tsunami warning across Tonga due to abnormal tide observations reported in Mango island and the Nuku’alofa marine and ports. A tsunami wave of 30 cm (12 inches) was recorded at the Nuku’alofa tide gauge at 12:30 Jan. 14. Sea level changes have also been reported in Samoa. Authorities are monitoring the sea level, and fluctuations are likely to continue through the afternoon of Jan. 15. The public is advised to stay away from low-lying coastal areas, beaches, and harbor areas and to avoid swimming and any related activities until the warning is canceled. No evacuation orders have been issued. Those out to sea are advised to move to deep waters. All government offices were closed 13:30 Jan. 14. There are no tsunami warnings for Fiji, Samoa, or New Zealand
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
Authorities have suspended domestic flights on the islands of Ha'apai due to ashfall. 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. Following an explosive event, air quality could become a concern, particularly in areas near the crater. 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.
