Results for Tonga Geological Services

Data collected from the tsunami affected small islands of ‘Atata, Malinoa and Fafa will be used for inundation forecast modeling for future volcanic tsunami events in Tonga. TGS stated that 'Atata, Malinoa and Fafa Islands were badly damaged by the tsunami with wave heights estimated to have reach 7m, 6.5m and 6m above sea level on each island respectively.

The aviation alert level for Tonga's Home Reef volcanic activity, was elevated to orange on October 5 and 6 as progressive volcanic activity continued into its 25th day, with one ash eruption.

Tonga's Home Reef Volcano erupted again early this morning, with eruption events increasing over the last 24 hours, sending steam vents 1km into the atmosphere. A volcanic submarine island has re-emerged 10m above sea level and continues to grow larger, Tonga Geological Services said. The volcanic activity poses low risks to aviation, but all mariners are warned to keep away from the area.

An explosive volcanic eruption shooting ash and pyroclastic material up to 350 metres above sea level was captured on camera yesterday, 22 Dec., by Tonga Navy crew, sailing close to the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai active volcano. However, ash was not detected at the height of aviation, Taaniela Kula (TGS) said, “this is a point of discussion with the authorities.”