Continued volcanic steam emissions and discolouration around the Home Reef volcano, are shown clearly in a Sentinel-2 satellite image on Thursday, 1 May, Tonga Geological Services (TGS) reported today.
“As of Saturday, 3 May, satellite data from MIROVA (figure 1) indicates a persistent moderate-level thermal anomaly at Home Reef.
“The volcanic activity poses low risk to the Vava'u and Ha'apai communities. All mariners are advised to remain at least 2 nautical miles away from Home Reef until further notice.”
Since the last public notice on April 28, 2025, Tonga Geological Services has maintained daily observations to assess the ongoing situation.
The maximum dimensions of the island now are approximately 540 meters (north to south) by 440 meters (west to east).
"The ongoing lava effusion within the vent and intermittent explosive activity are likely to persist," TGS stated.
"Monitoring of Home Reef Volcano will continue in the coming weeks to ensure public safety with ongoing assessments to track the volcanic activity and evaluating potential hazards."
Home Reef is located 25 km southwest of Late Island, 22 km northeast of Lateiki (Metis Shoal) and 75 km northwest of Mo'unga'one island at latitude & longitude 18.992 S & 174.775 W.
