Tonga: Further volcanic activity likely at Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai Volcano as of Jan. 17 /update 4

Event

Further volcanic activity remains likely at the Hunga Tonga-Hunga-Ha'apai Volcano as of Jan. 17 following a major eruption Jan. 15. The eruption triggered various tsunami warnings, advisories, and statements, across the Pacific, including in Tonga; as of Jan. 17, authorities have lifted all warnings. Tsunami waves of up to 1.2-1.5 meters (4-5 feet) struck Tonga's capital Nuku'alofa, while waves of around 1 meter (3 feet) hit the west coast of the US, including Santa Cruz, California, and the Oregon coast. Reports also indicate waves of 1.4 meters (4.5 feet) at Manzanillo Port, Mexico, and 1.74 meters (5.5 feet) in Chanaral, Chile; Ecuador also reported elevated sea levels. Two people drowned at a beach in northern Peru Jan. 15 due to anomalous waves; emergency crews also rescued dozens of others from flooding in the country's south. Another major eruption reportedly occurred early Jan. 17; however, the event did not trigger any tsunami warnings.

Nuku'alofa's north-facing areas are particularly impacted. Telecommunications, power, and internet services disruptions in Tonga have been ongoing since Jan. 15; restoration efforts are underway. Reports also indicate damage to an undersea internet cable; repairs could take around two weeks. Due to communication disruptions, accurate damage and casualty reports remain unavailable, particularly outside of the capital, as of Jan. 17. Australia and New Zealand have dispatched surveillance flights Jan. 17 to assess the damage. The status of Fuaʻamotu International Airport (TBU) remains unclear; however, severe disruptions at the airport are likely.

Ash reportedly covers much of Tonga while also affecting Fiji, New Caledonia, and Vanuatu. The ash cloud is forecast to reach eastern Australia Jan. 17. Ash has reportedly contaminated the freshwater 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.

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