Dear Editor

It is with very much interest and concern that I write this letter. As a qualified and experienced volcanologist who has worked in Tonga for almost 30 years I have had experiences and heard of many more, that indicate getting too close to erupting volcanoes is extremely dangerous and on many occasions life threatening.

Erupting volcanoes do indeed provide excellent photo opportunities but at what risk and to get too close when the volcano is still considered very active is extremely unwise. Volcanoes are unpredictable as they may not give any warning signs that eruptive activity is going to occur. Furthermore, the landforms produced during explosive activity remain unstable for a long period and are very susceptible to collapse.

It is the responsibility of the local scientific and disaster officials to provide advice as to whether it is safe to visit or land on islands produced by such dangerous phenomena. They should be consulted before visiting locations like the Hunga Ha'apai volcano.

In short, as an experienced volcanologist I would strongly caution against further landings on the island whilst it is in a state of activity.

Regards

Paul Taylor
Australian Volcanological Investigations