<p>Tonga is receiving humanitarian aid as countries are sending much-needed supplies to the South Pacific nation after the aircraft could land after the airport was reopened.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the latest images coming from the disaster-hit nation, as far as one could see, the roads, infrastructures, etc are covered in ash, telling a terrifying tale of the massive undersea volcanic eruption that sent Tsunami waves.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Foreign aid planes arrived today but the aid drops will be contactless to limit the spread of coronavirus in a country that has seen just one confirmed case.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/latest-satellite-pictures-tsunami-and-volcano-in-tonga-445867">Latest satellite pictures: Tsunami and volcano in Tonga</a></strong></p>

<p>Amid the scenes of devastation and damage, a survival story has gained attention. The story of Lisala Folau, a 57-year-old Tongan man who has claimed that he swam for more than 24 hours to save himself after he was swept out to sea by the dangerous high waves.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Folau told Reuters that he felt scared but his faith in God helped him "overcome fears". Talking about his survival story, he said, "When I was in the water I remember going underwater eight times. My legs are disabled and my disability and my legs don't function as well."</p>

<p>The Guardian reported that Folau is a retired disabled carpenter who lives on a small island called Atala, with a population of about 60 people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"So I went underwater eight times and I tried to get air. The sea kept twirling me and taking me underwater. On the eighth time I thought, the next time I go underwater that's it, because my arms were the only things that were keeping me above water."</p>

<p>"So I told myself the next time I come up and I can't handle it, that's it. So the ninth time I went under and came up and grabbed a log. And that's what kept me going."</p>

<p>the report mentioned that Folau was painting his house on Saturday evening when he received the news about the tsunami from his brother.</p>

<p><strong>Current situation Tonga</strong></p>

<p>Australia and New Zealand confirmed that their planes loaded with supplies reached Tonga, after days of delays. The flights carried carry humanitarian supplies and telecommunications equipment.</p>

<p>As per the latest inputs, news from Tonga has been severely limited since the weekend's disaster, which damaged undersea communications cables.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Why pilots flying to America are afraid of 5G?</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="row">
<div class="article-blockquote">
<div class="col-sm-10 col-sm-offset-1 blockquote-content quoteshare">
<blockquote>
<h5>&nbsp;</h5>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-pilots-flying-to-america-are-afraid-of-5g-446292/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</blockquote>
</div>

<div class="col-sm-1 blockquote-content">
<div class="share-blockquote"><a class="twitter popup" href="http://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=&lt;div class=videoWrapper trancodeVideo&gt;&lt;iframe src=https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-pilots-flying-to-america-are-afraid-of-5g-446292/embed width=560 height=350 style=width:100%;max-width:560px; class=includeVideo frameborder=0 autoplay=1 allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/div&gt;
" target="_blank"><i class="fa fa-share">&nbsp;</i></a></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqquoteclosemark">×</a></div>
</div>
</div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Tonga is receiving humanitarian aid as countries are sending much-needed supplies to the South Pacific nation after the aircraft could land after the airport was reopened.

Tonga is receiving humanitarian aid as countries are sending much-needed supplies to the South Pacific nation after the aircraft could land after the airport was reopened. In the latest images coming from the disaster-hit nation, as far as one could see, the roads, infrastructures, etc are covered in ash, telling a terrifying tale of the massive undersea volcanic eruption that sent Tsunami waves. Foreign aid planes arrived today but the aid drops will be contactless to limit the spread of coronavirus in a country that has seen just one confirmed case. IN PICS | Latest satellite pictures: Tsunami and volcano in Tonga Amid the scenes of devastation and damage, a survival story has gained attention. The story of Lisala Folau, a 57-year-old Tongan man who has claimed that he swam for more than 24 hours to save himself after he was swept out to sea by the dangerous high waves. Folau told Reuters that he felt scared but his faith in God helped him "overcome fears". Talking about his survival story, he said, "When I was in the water I remember going underwater eight times. My legs are disabled and my disability and my legs don't function as well." The Guardian reported that Folau is a retired disabled carpenter who lives on a small island called Atala, with a population of about 60 people. "So I went underwater eight times and I tried to get air. The sea kept twirling me and taking me underwater. On the eighth time I thought, the next time I go underwater that's it, because my arms were the only things that were keeping me above water." "So I told myself the next time I come up and I can't handle it, that's it. So the ninth time I went under and came up and grabbed a log. And that's what kept me going." the report mentioned that Folau was painting his house on Saturday evening when he received the news about the tsunami from his brother. Current situation Tonga Australia and New Zealand confirmed that their planes loaded with supplies reached Tonga, after days of delays. The flights carried carry humanitarian supplies and telecommunications equipment. As per the latest inputs, news from Tonga has been severely limited since the weekend's disaster, which damaged undersea communications cables. WATCH | Gravitas: Why pilots flying to America are afraid of 5G? ×

A 57-year-old Tongan man says he survived 27-hour swim after tsunami

Peruvians are racing to save animals caught up in a devastating oil spill that has been blamed on a volcanic explosion near Tonga.

Peruvians race to rescue animals as oil spill spreads

After about five days of unprecedented devastation, aid operations have been ramped up for Tonga which is still reeling from the aftermath of the volcanic eruption and tsunami.

UK, New Zealand, Australia send aid to Tonga after devastating volcanic eruption and tsunami

We have been telling you about the devastation in the Pacific island nation of Tonga, the 750 square kilometer region suffered an undersea volcanic eruption and then a tsunami crashed ashore but now the region is facing another major challenge that of a possible covid-19 outbreak. Tonga has reported just one case of the virus but with relief workers and aid shipments on their way to the island it has been feared that solving one crisis could give rise to a covid outbreak.

Volcanic eruption, tsunami and now Covid outbreak fears loom over Tonga island

<p>Tsunami-hit Tonga to receive aid after humanitarian flights finally made their way to the Pacific nation, which has been cut off from the rest of the world after a massive undersea volcanic eruption.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Aircraft from Australia and New Zealand will arrive in Tonga on Thursday carrying much-needed humanitarian supplies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"A C17 Globemaster left from Amberley Airport Base around 7 am today [Thursday] (2000 GMT)," an Australian defence official told AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/latest-satellite-pictures-tsunami-and-volcano-in-tonga-445867">Latest satellite pictures: Tsunami and volcano in Tonga</a></strong></p>

<p>Nanaia Mahuta, who is the foreign minister of New Zealand said in a statement that its air force has also sent a C-130 Hercules from Auckland. Loaded with much-needed supplies the aircraft will land in the Tongan capital Nuku'alofa at about 4 pm New Zealand time.</p>

<p>In a statement, Mahuta said: "The aircraft is carrying humanitarian aid and disaster relief supplies, including water containers, kits for temporary shelters, generators, hygiene and family kits, and communications equipment."</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/satellite-photos-show-russian-troops-deployed-near-ukraine-border-446072">Satellite photos show Russian troops deployed near Ukraine border</a></strong></p>

<p>On the ground, Tongans have scrambled to clear a thick blanket of volcanic ash from Fua'amotu International Airport's runway.</p>

<p>Tonga's main airport, which was only recently cleared of ash after painstaking effort.</p>

<p><strong>COVID-19 concerns</strong></p>

<p>In the aftermath, Tongan authorities requested the countries to send supplies keeping the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in mind. They asked the aid drops to be near contactless in order to prevent the risk of Covid spreading to the island.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tonga is one of the few countries to be free of the coronavirus. New Zealand said that it had agreed to receive two of its ships carrying aid and supply, despite concerns about importing a Covid outbreak. Vaccination against the virus is as high as 90% among Tongans.</p>

<p>New Zealand's Defence Minister Peeni Henare confirmed the delivery would be contactless. "The aircraft is expected to be on the ground for up to 90 minutes before returning to New Zealand," she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>The volcano eruption&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcano erupted and sent tsunami waves across the Pacific on Saturday, causing massive damage and knocking out communications for the nation of about 105,000 people.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Telephone links between Tonga and the wider world were being reconnected late on Wednesday, though restoring full internet connectivity is likely to take a month or more.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/govt-15-metre-tsunami-devastated-tonga-that-claimed-lives-of-2-locals-a-british-woman-so-far-445973/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Tsunami-hit Tonga to receive aid after humanitarian flights finally made their way to the Pacific nation, which has been cut off from the rest of the world after a massive undersea volcanic eruption.

Tsunami-hit Tonga to receive aid after humanitarian flights finally made their way to the Pacific nation, which has been cut off from the rest of the world after a massive undersea volcanic eruption. Aircraft from Australia and New Zealand will arrive in Tonga on Thursday carrying much-needed humanitarian supplies. "A C17 Globemaster left from Amberley Airport Base around 7 am today [Thursday] (2000 GMT)," an Australian defence official told AFP. IN PICS | Latest satellite pictures: Tsunami and volcano in Tonga Nanaia Mahuta, who is the foreign minister of New Zealand said in a statement that its air force has also sent a C-130 Hercules from Auckland. Loaded with much-needed supplies the aircraft will land in the Tongan capital Nuku'alofa at about 4 pm New Zealand time. In a statement, Mahuta said: "The aircraft is carrying humanitarian aid and disaster relief supplies, including water containers, kits for temporary shelters, generators, hygiene and family kits, and communications equipment." IN PICS | Satellite photos show Russian troops deployed near Ukraine border On the ground, Tongans have scrambled to clear a thick blanket of volcanic ash from Fua'amotu International Airport's runway. Tonga's main airport, which was only recently cleared of ash after painstaking effort. COVID-19 concerns In the aftermath, Tongan authorities requested the countries to send supplies keeping the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in mind. They asked the aid drops to be near contactless in order to prevent the risk of Covid spreading to the island. Tonga is one of the few countries to be free of the coronavirus. New Zealand said that it had agreed to receive two of its ships carrying aid and supply, despite concerns about importing a Covid outbreak. Vaccination against the virus is as high as 90% among Tongans. New Zealand's Defence Minister Peeni Henare confirmed the delivery would be contactless. "The aircraft is expected to be on the ground for up to 90 minutes before returning to New Zealand," she said. The volcano eruption Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcano erupted and sent tsunami waves across the Pacific on Saturday, causing massive damage and knocking out communications for the nation of about 105,000 people. Telephone links between Tonga and the wider world were being reconnected late on Wednesday, though restoring full internet connectivity is likely to take a month or more. ×

Tsunami-hit Tonga to receive humanitarian aid as airport reopens

<p>A 57-year-old Tongan man is being hailed as 'real-life Aquaman' after he said he swam for 27 hours to reach the shore after a tsunami triggered by violent explosion of Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha`apai volcano on the Southern Pacific island nation.</p>

<p>The volcanic explosion sent tsunami waves rolling across the archipelago, damaging villages, resorts and many buildings and knocked out communications for the nation of about 105,000 people.</p>

<p>Lisala Folau, who lived on the small, isolated island of Atata which has a population of about 60 people, was swept out to sea when the waves hit land at about 7 pm&nbsp;on Saturday, he said in a radio interview to Tongan media agency Broadcom Broadcasting.</p>

<p>Folau said he was painting his home when he was alerted about the tsunami by his brother, and soon the waves had gone through his lounge.</p>

<p>He climbed on a tree to escape but when he got down another big wave swept him away, he said. The 57-year-old said he is disabled and cannot walk properly.</p>

<p>"I just floated, bashed around by the big waves that kept coming," he told the radio station.</p>

<p>Folau said he kept floating, and slowly managed to swim 7.5 km (4.7 miles) to the main island of Tongatapu, reaching the shore 27 hours later at about 10 p.m. on Sunday.</p>

<p>The story of Folau`s heroics went viral among Tongan groups on Facebook and other social media.</p>

<p>"Real life Aquaman," said one post on Facebook, referring to the comic book and film chracter.</p>

<p>"He`s a legend," said another post.</p>

<p>Atata, which is about 8 km northwest of Tonga’s capital Nuku`alofa, or a 30-minute boat ride, has been almost entirely destroyed in the tsunami that hit the islands. Tongan naval boats are still surveing the smaller islands and evacuating people to the main islands.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A 57-year-old Tongan man is being hailed as 'real-life Aquaman' after he said he swam for 27 hours to reach the shore after a tsunami triggered by violent explosion of Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha`apai volcano on the Southern Pacific island nation.

A 57-year-old Tongan man is being hailed as 'real-life Aquaman' after he said he swam for 27 hours to reach the shore after a tsunami triggered by violent explosion of Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha`apai volcano on the Southern Pacific island nation. The volcanic explosion sent tsunami waves rolling across the archipelago, damaging villages, resorts and many buildings and knocked out communications for the nation of about 105,000 people. Lisala Folau, who lived on the small, isolated island of Atata which has a population of about 60 people, was swept out to sea when the waves hit land at about 7 pm on Saturday, he said in a radio interview to Tongan media agency Broadcom Broadcasting. Folau said he was painting his home when he was alerted about the tsunami by his brother, and soon the waves had gone through his lounge. He climbed on a tree to escape but when he got down another big wave swept him away, he said. The 57-year-old said he is disabled and cannot walk properly. "I just floated, bashed around by the big waves that kept coming," he told the radio station. Folau said he kept floating, and slowly managed to swim 7.5 km (4.7 miles) to the main island of Tongatapu, reaching the shore 27 hours later at about 10 p.m. on Sunday. The story of Folau`s heroics went viral among Tongan groups on Facebook and other social media. "Real life Aquaman," said one post on Facebook, referring to the comic book and film chracter. "He`s a legend," said another post. Atata, which is about 8 km northwest of Tonga’s capital Nuku`alofa, or a 30-minute boat ride, has been almost entirely destroyed in the tsunami that hit the islands. Tongan naval boats are still surveing the smaller islands and evacuating people to the main islands. (With inputs from agencies)

'Real life Aquaman': Disabled Tongan man swam for 27 hours after tsunami

<p>The volcanic eruption on South Pacific island nation of Tonga and the subsequent tsunami have amounted to a major catastrophe for citizens. The volcano, which was erupting since December 2021 exploded violently on January 15, 2022. Hundreds of homes in Tonga have been destroyed and the island nation was even briefly cut off from rest of the world.</p>

<p>Just how powerful was this explosion could be understood from the fact such as the effects of the tsunami and the volcanic ash cloud were observed even in Peru, more than 10,000 kilometres across the Pacific Ocean. The explosion of Hunga Tonga volcano was even heard in Canada, again, more than 10,000 kilometres away.</p>

<p>Now it has come to light that the volcanic eruption even sent 'atmospheric gravity waves' into space. These waves were detected by a NASA satellite. The waves radiated outwards in concentric circles around the volcano.</p>

<p>Nations have rushed to help the island nation. Japan and Australia have sent aid and relief materials. Boxes of drinking water were among the supplies loaded onto an aircraft parked on the tarmac of Komaki base in Japan</p>

<p>The Japanese government announced on Wednesday (January 19) it would provide at least $1 million in aid, as well as drinking water and equipment to clean the volcano ash in Tonga.</p>

<p>The Red Cross said its teams in Tonga had confirmed that saltwater from the tsunami and volcanic ash were polluting the drinking water of tens of thousands of people</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The volcanic eruption on South Pacific island nation of Tonga and the subsequent tsunami have amounted to a major catastrophe for citizens. The volcano, which was erupting since December 2021 exploded violently on January 15, 2022.

The volcanic eruption on South Pacific island nation of Tonga and the subsequent tsunami have amounted to a major catastrophe for citizens. The volcano, which was erupting since December 2021 exploded violently on January 15, 2022. Hundreds of homes in Tonga have been destroyed and the island nation was even briefly cut off from rest of the world. Just how powerful was this explosion could be understood from the fact such as the effects of the tsunami and the volcanic ash cloud were observed even in Peru, more than 10,000 kilometres across the Pacific Ocean. The explosion of Hunga Tonga volcano was even heard in Canada, again, more than 10,000 kilometres away. Now it has come to light that the volcanic eruption even sent 'atmospheric gravity waves' into space. These waves were detected by a NASA satellite. The waves radiated outwards in concentric circles around the volcano. Nations have rushed to help the island nation. Japan and Australia have sent aid and relief materials. Boxes of drinking water were among the supplies loaded onto an aircraft parked on the tarmac of Komaki base in Japan The Japanese government announced on Wednesday (January 19) it would provide at least $1 million in aid, as well as drinking water and equipment to clean the volcano ash in Tonga. The Red Cross said its teams in Tonga had confirmed that saltwater from the tsunami and volcanic ash were polluting the drinking water of tens of thousands of people (With inputs from agencies)

Tonga: The powerful volcanic eruptions even sent 'gravity waves' into space

Australia and New Zealand have now sent in the much needed humanitarian supplies to Tonga. The tsunami hit south pacific island which finally has been made contact with with the rest of the world after having been completely cut off for the last five days. Now after having been days off the grid the very first visuals of the scale of devastation that's been wreaked by the tsunami waves on the island nation have emerged.

Fields washed away, trees uprooted; first batch of aid arrives in Tonga

The devastating Tsunami that ravaged Pacific island of Tonga has sent shockwaves across the globe. From high tides in Japan and the US to oil spill in Peru, the after-effects of the under volcanic eruption has been damaging. Peru's government has declared the oil spill as the worst ecological disaster in years.

Tonga volcano: Peru beach turns black after hit by oil spill

Initial damage assessment is now underway in Tonga following a violent volcanic eruption which also triggered a tsunami which crashed ashore on Tonga. According to authorities at least, a 15 meter tall Tsunami waves crashed ashore on Tonga resulting in deaths of at least about three people and demolishing several homes.

Tonga volcanic eruption: At least 3 killed, homes demolished; damage assessment is underway

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="3">After an underwater volcanic eruption, now considered to be the world's largest in the last three decades, created a terrible tsunami and sent heavy smoke and soot billowing across the Pacific island nation of Tonga, Australia and New Zealand have despatched relief.&nbsp;</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="7">Australia and New Zealand have been loading naval ships and aircraft with aid for Tonga as the United Nations said it was preparing for distance relief operations to avoid a COVID-19 outbreak in the Pacific island nation.<br />
<br />
<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/water-is-an-immediate-need-tonga-assesses-damage-after-volcanic-eruption-covid-19-threat-looms-445444">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Tonga assesses damage after volcanic eruption, COVID-19 threat looms</a></strong></p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="8">Tonga is reeling from the effects of an undersea volcanic explosion approximately 65 kilometres north of Nuku'alofa, the country's capital, which generated a tsunami up to 15 metres high and sent waves crashing across the Pacific.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="9">In its first announcement since Saturday's disastrous eruption, the government announced that all of the homes on one of Tonga's small offshore islands were destroyed, and three individuals have been confirmed dead.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="10">Because communications have been severely hampered by the severing of an undersea cable, reconnaissance planes have been the primary source of information on the scope of the devastation thus far.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Death toll climbs after volcanic eruption and tsunami in Tonga</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/death-toll-climbs-to-2-following-tongas-volcano-eruption-and-tsunami-445744/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="11">Tonga has said its water supplies have been contaminated by ash from the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcano, which erupted with a blast 2,300 km (1,430 miles) away in New Zealand. It also sent tsunami waves across the Pacific Ocean.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="12"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


After an underwater volcanic eruption, now considered to be the world's largest in the last three decades, created a terrible tsunami and sent heavy smoke and soot billowing across the Pacific island nation of Tonga, Australia and New Zealand have despatched relief.

After an underwater volcanic eruption, now considered to be the world's largest in the last three decades, created a terrible tsunami and sent heavy smoke and soot billowing across the Pacific island nation of Tonga, Australia and New Zealand have despatched relief. Australia and New Zealand have been loading naval ships and aircraft with aid for Tonga as the United Nations said it was preparing for distance relief operations to avoid a COVID-19 outbreak in the Pacific island nation. Also Read in Pics: Tonga assesses damage after volcanic eruption, COVID-19 threat looms Tonga is reeling from the effects of an undersea volcanic explosion approximately 65 kilometres north of Nuku'alofa, the country's capital, which generated a tsunami up to 15 metres high and sent waves crashing across the Pacific. In its first announcement since Saturday's disastrous eruption, the government announced that all of the homes on one of Tonga's small offshore islands were destroyed, and three individuals have been confirmed dead. Because communications have been severely hampered by the severing of an undersea cable, reconnaissance planes have been the primary source of information on the scope of the devastation thus far. Watch: Death toll climbs after volcanic eruption and tsunami in Tonga Tonga has said its water supplies have been contaminated by ash from the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcano, which erupted with a blast 2,300 km (1,430 miles) away in New Zealand. It also sent tsunami waves across the Pacific Ocean. (With inputs from agencies)

Tonga volcano eruption: Australia and New Zealand sending aid ships to tsunami-hit island

At least two people and a British woman have died following volcanic eruption and tsunami in Tonga that left extensive damage in its wake.

Govt: 15-Metre Tsunami devastated Tonga that claimed lives of 2 locals & a British woman so far

<p>Tonga's government said on Wednesday that&nbsp;a 49-foot tsunami wave had hit the country last weekend.</p>

<p>Reports say at least three&nbsp;people have been killed, although, the death toll could be higher with rescue efforts recently underway in the island nation.</p>

<p>"An unprecedented disaster hit Tonga," the government said as rescue operations began days after the volcano hit the island nation.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/water-is-an-immediate-need-tonga-assesses-damage-after-volcanic-eruption-covid-19-threat-looms-445444">Also Read in Pics:&nbsp;Tonga assesses damage after volcanic eruption, COVID-19 threat looms</a></p>

<p>The tsunami wave had hit the west coast as&nbsp;several islands were affected even as reports said as a village was completely wiped out. The government said several people were injured as a result of the volcanic&nbsp;eruption.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Death toll climbs after volcanic eruption and tsunami in Tonga</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/death-toll-climbs-to-2-following-tongas-volcano-eruption-and-tsunami-445744/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Health workers and rescue operators have been deployed which has been delayed due to communication&nbsp;breakdown with the island nation after the tsunami hit. The volcano had hit the undersea cables hampering relief effort.</p>

<p>The New Zealand government said the undersea cables might take at least a month to fix. Reports say hundreds of homes have been destroyed with extensive damage reported in many remote islands which are still inaccessible.</p>

<p><img alt="Satellite picture of Tonga" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ddf13066-87c0-4034-8861-9c10e2a92ba7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/TT2.jpg" /></p>

<p>According to the UN's coordination office, the island of Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai had lost a large part of its&nbsp;surface area with rescue operations underway to save people.</p>

<p>Satellite pictures showed the island being blanketed by ash, although the international airport hasn't been damaged but reports say it is covered with ash with officials claiming it might reopen on Wednesday.</p>

<p>New Zealand has sent two ships with supplies with UN teams on standby. The Australian government said its C-130 aircraft is ready to deliver humanitarian assistance as the island nation grapples with the destruction caused due to the volcano. &nbsp;</p>

<p>(With inputs from Agencies)</p>


Tonga's government said on Wednesday that a 49-foot tsunami wave had hit the country last weekend. Reports say at least three people have been killed, although, the death toll could be higher with rescue efforts recently underway in the island nation.

Tonga's government said on Wednesday that a 49-foot tsunami wave had hit the country last weekend. Reports say at least three people have been killed, although, the death toll could be higher with rescue efforts recently underway in the island nation. "An unprecedented disaster hit Tonga," the government said as rescue operations began days after the volcano hit the island nation. Also Read in Pics: Tonga assesses damage after volcanic eruption, COVID-19 threat looms The tsunami wave had hit the west coast as several islands were affected even as reports said as a village was completely wiped out. The government said several people were injured as a result of the volcanic eruption. Watch: Death toll climbs after volcanic eruption and tsunami in Tonga Health workers and rescue operators have been deployed which has been delayed due to communication breakdown with the island nation after the tsunami hit. The volcano had hit the undersea cables hampering relief effort. The New Zealand government said the undersea cables might take at least a month to fix. Reports say hundreds of homes have been destroyed with extensive damage reported in many remote islands which are still inaccessible. According to the UN's coordination office, the island of Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai had lost a large part of its surface area with rescue operations underway to save people. Satellite pictures showed the island being blanketed by ash, although the international airport hasn't been damaged but reports say it is covered with ash with officials claiming it might reopen on Wednesday. New Zealand has sent two ships with supplies with UN teams on standby. The Australian government said its C-130 aircraft is ready to deliver humanitarian assistance as the island nation grapples with the destruction caused due to the volcano. (With inputs from Agencies)

'Unprecedented disaster': Tonga was hit by 49-foot tsunami, says government

In Pics: Situation remains grim in Tonga, countries come forward to help

Even after three days of the massive volcanic blast that crippled communications in Tonga and sent tsunami waves as far as the US, the pacific island continues to remain cut off from the rest of the world. Tonga is virtually unreachable after the critical undersea cable connecting the pacific islands to the outside world got severed.

Tonga cut off from the rest of the world, first death reported in volcano eruption

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidvv1UBybfEeOm" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p><strong>Here are some of the top stories to start your day:&nbsp;</strong>A distress signal has been detected in a low-lying Tongan island following the volcanic eruption and tsunami, the United Nations said. Also read the latest on the drone attack on Abu Dhabi that left at least three people dead, including two Indians.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on headlines to read the full report:</strong></p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tsunami-hit-tonga-remains-cut-off-distress-signal-detected-445564">Tsunami-hit Tonga remains cut off; distress signal detected</a></strong><br />
At least one person has died after an underwater volcanic blast near the Pacific island nation of Tonga triggered a tsunami warning two days ago. Communication lines remain disrupted with the airport closed as reports said there has been large scale damage along the western coast of Tonga.</p>

<p><img alt="Tonga" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="eab1c095-8b81-416b-ab4c-00a39a0d6979" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Tonga%20%285%29.jpg" /></p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-and-uk-condemn-yemeni-drone-attack-on-abu-dhabi-that-killed-3-including-indians-445573">US and UK condemn Yemeni drone attack on Abu Dhabi that killed 3, including Indians</a></strong><br />
The United States condemned the drone attack on Abu Dhabi on Monday (January 17) that left at least three people dead, including two Indians. After the drone attack which triggered a fuel tank blast, Yemen's Huthi rebels claimed responsibility and warned civilians and foreign firms in the UAE to avoid "vital installations".&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Abu Dhabi" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="eb4c4e7e-1d8e-4c8c-8d3e-15aadf5c058e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Drone%20attack.jpg" /></p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/to-deter-russian-aggression-canada-sends-special-forces-operators-small-contingent-to-ukraine-says-report-445569">To deter Russian aggression, Canada sends special forces operators’ small contingent to Ukraine, says report</a></strong><br />
As tensions continue to rise in the region, Canada has sent a small contingent of special forces operators to Ukraine, reported Global News on Monday. This comes as security talks last week had ended without a solution to the issues between Russia and Ukraine. &nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Canada" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="19187bda-3e04-4d3e-be32-0d40254a8180" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Canada.jpg" /></p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/davos-agenda-2022-un-chief-urges-business-to-help-low-income-nations-amid-covid-19-and-climate-crises-at-wef-445567">Davos Agenda 2022: UN chief urges business to help low-income nations amid COVID-19 and climate crises at WEF</a></strong><br />
During a virtual address at the World Economic Forum (WEF) Davos Agenda 2022 on Monday (January 17), the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres highlighted urgent actions needed to help developing countries amid climate, coronavirus (COVID-19) and other crises.</p>

<p><img alt="World Economic Forum" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="69574177-ba5f-484c-993b-acf24980d90c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Antonio%20Guterres.jpg" /></p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Sri Lanka staring at power crisis</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sri-lanka-staring-at-power-crisis-445562/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Here are some of the top stories to start your day: A distress signal has been detected in a low-lying Tongan island following the volcanic eruption and tsunami, the United Nations said.

Here are some of the top stories to start your day: A distress signal has been detected in a low-lying Tongan island following the volcanic eruption and tsunami, the United Nations said. Also read the latest on the drone attack on Abu Dhabi that left at least three people dead, including two Indians. Click on headlines to read the full report: Tsunami-hit Tonga remains cut off; distress signal detected At least one person has died after an underwater volcanic blast near the Pacific island nation of Tonga triggered a tsunami warning two days ago. Communication lines remain disrupted with the airport closed as reports said there has been large scale damage along the western coast of Tonga. US and UK condemn Yemeni drone attack on Abu Dhabi that killed 3, including Indians The United States condemned the drone attack on Abu Dhabi on Monday (January 17) that left at least three people dead, including two Indians. After the drone attack which triggered a fuel tank blast, Yemen's Huthi rebels claimed responsibility and warned civilians and foreign firms in the UAE to avoid "vital installations". To deter Russian aggression, Canada sends special forces operators’ small contingent to Ukraine, says report As tensions continue to rise in the region, Canada has sent a small contingent of special forces operators to Ukraine, reported Global News on Monday. This comes as security talks last week had ended without a solution to the issues between Russia and Ukraine. Davos Agenda 2022: UN chief urges business to help low-income nations amid COVID-19 and climate crises at WEF During a virtual address at the World Economic Forum (WEF) Davos Agenda 2022 on Monday (January 17), the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres highlighted urgent actions needed to help developing countries amid climate, coronavirus (COVID-19) and other crises. WATCH | Sri Lanka staring at power crisis ×

Morning news brief: Canada on Russia-Ukraine crisis, Abu Dhabi drone attack and more

At least two people have died following volcanic eruption and tsunami in Tonga that left extensive damage in its wake.

Death toll climbs to 2 following Tonga's volcano eruption and tsunami

Parts of Peru's central coast and two beaches were dirtied by oil spilled from a discharge ship rocked by waves caused by the eruption of a volcano in Tonga, the country’s environment minister said.

Golden sand turned black in Peru after an oil spill affected shoreline

<p>A satellite captured several images showing the before and after situation of a volcanic eruption at the South Pacific island of Tonga.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The images have been taken by the Copernicus Sentinel-1 satellite, around 12 hours after the eruption. They show how the uninhabited volcanic island had vanished after the blast.</p>

<p>An underwater volcano off Tonga erupted on Saturday, triggering a tsunami on the shores of Tonga and cutting off phone and internet lines for the entire island.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As of now, there are no official reports of injuries or deaths in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Tonga volcano before and after eruption" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="579743f1-ab12-419f-9418-4c6713e4a8ea" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_222.jpg" /></p>

<p><img alt="Tonga volcano before and after eruption" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7a925033-9073-4810-ac13-ee6b9a6b3d3c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29_161.jpg" /></p>

<p>Tonga was reportedly covered in ash and facing a near-total blackout. Its capital is just 65km south of where the eruption took place.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/water-is-an-immediate-need-tonga-assesses-damage-after-volcanic-eruption-covid-19-threat-looms-445444"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;'Water is an immediate need': Tonga assesses damage after volcanic eruption, COVID-19 threat looms</strong></a></p>

<p>The massive explosion of the Hunga Tonga Hunga Ha'apai volcano was the latest in a series of eruptions. It has erupted regularly over the past few decades but the impact of Saturday's eruption was felt as far away as Fiji, New Zealand, the United States and Japan.</p>

<p>Two people drowned off a beach in Northern Peru due to high waves caused by the tsunami.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Australia and New Zealand sent surveillance flights on Monday to assess the damage in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Royal Australian Air Force P-8A Poseidon Aircraft was sent to assess damage to crucial infrastructures such as power lines and roads, while the Royal New Zealand Air Force P-3K Orion was deployed to conduct reconnaissance.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A satellite captured several images showing the before and after situation of a volcanic eruption at the South Pacific island of Tonga. The images have been taken by the Copernicus Sentinel-1 satellite, around 12 hours after the eruption.

A satellite captured several images showing the before and after situation of a volcanic eruption at the South Pacific island of Tonga. The images have been taken by the Copernicus Sentinel-1 satellite, around 12 hours after the eruption. They show how the uninhabited volcanic island had vanished after the blast. An underwater volcano off Tonga erupted on Saturday, triggering a tsunami on the shores of Tonga and cutting off phone and internet lines for the entire island. As of now, there are no official reports of injuries or deaths in the region. Tonga was reportedly covered in ash and facing a near-total blackout. Its capital is just 65km south of where the eruption took place. Also read | 'Water is an immediate need': Tonga assesses damage after volcanic eruption, COVID-19 threat looms The massive explosion of the Hunga Tonga Hunga Ha'apai volcano was the latest in a series of eruptions. It has erupted regularly over the past few decades but the impact of Saturday's eruption was felt as far away as Fiji, New Zealand, the United States and Japan. Two people drowned off a beach in Northern Peru due to high waves caused by the tsunami. Australia and New Zealand sent surveillance flights on Monday to assess the damage in the region. The Royal Australian Air Force P-8A Poseidon Aircraft was sent to assess damage to crucial infrastructures such as power lines and roads, while the Royal New Zealand Air Force P-3K Orion was deployed to conduct reconnaissance. (With inputs from agencies)

These satellite images show Tonga volcano before and after eruption

'Water is an immediate need': Tonga assesses damage after volcanic eruption, COVID-19 threat looms

<p>Tsunami warnings were issued after a dramatic underwater volcano erupted off Tonga on Saturday (January 15). Advisories and evacuation orders were also issued on the shores of Tonga as well as several South Pacific islands. As circulated on social media forums, footage from such areas showed waves crashing into coastal homes.</p>

<p>In the latest update, the tsunami threat from a powerful Tonga volcano eruption has passed, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said on Sunday, after powerful waves flooded coastlines from Japan to the United States.</p>

<p>"Based on all available data, the tsunami threat from this volcanic eruption has now passed," the PTWC said at 0300 GMT, adding authorities at "impacted coastal areas should monitor... to determine when it is safe to resume normal activities"</p>

<p>The massive explosion of the Hunga Tonga Hunga Ha'apai volcano was the latest in a series of eruptions. The satellite images showed the undersea volcanic eruption sending smoke and ash into the air.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far, there is no report of injuries or damage but in the aftermath, the phone lines and internet services have been impacted as&nbsp;many parts of Tonga are reportedly covered in ash and facing&nbsp;a near-total blackout. Tonga's capital is just 65km south of where the eruption took place. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Tsunami advisories</strong></p>

<p>According to Australia's Bureau of Meteorology, a tsunami wave measuring 1.2 metres was observed in Tonga's capital Nuku'alofa and tsunami advisories were issued for other South Pacific islands.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tsunami advisories&nbsp;were issued for Hawaii, Alaska and the Pacific coast of the United States and Chile. Later, in some parts, the advisories were subsequently lifted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A tsunami advisory was also in effect for the US&nbsp;and Canadian Pacific coast, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Honolulu said. The National Weather Service said tsunami waves along the Oregon and southern Washington coast were expected imminently.</p>

<p>As reported by Reuters, high waves were reported in Alaska and Hawaii earlier. In the San Francisco Bay Area of northern California, small parts of the cities of Berkeley and Albany near the bay were ordered to evacuate.</p>

<p>Also, warnings of dangerous ocean waves were issued as far away as the US West Coast, parts of New Zealand and Japan, with authorities issuing advisories for people on their Pacific coastlines to get away from the shore as a precaution. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The Japan Meteorological Agency said the tsunami reached the country's Pacific coast with waves as high as three meters possible. The agency said that a 1.2-metre wave reached the remote southern island of Amami Oshima and other areas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chile's National Emergency Office ordered the evacuation of several coastal regions Saturday due to a minor Tsunami warning reported by the Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service of the Navy (SHOA).</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">1.14.2021: Large volcanic eruption near Tonga (Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcano) today as seen from outer space. Shown on visible imagery using the Himawari satellite. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/hiwx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#hiwx</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tsunami?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tsunami</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#earthquake</a> <a href="https://t.co/zOTj6Qu1Wv">pic.twitter.com/zOTj6Qu1Wv</a></p>
— NWSHonolulu (@NWSHonolulu) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSHonolulu/status/1482255559072096256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://t.co/55catl3wex">pic.twitter.com/55catl3wex</a></p>
— NWSHonolulu (@NWSHonolulu) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSHonolulu/status/1482415641491656708?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>New Zealand PM reacts</strong></p>

<p>New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said in a statement on Instagram: "The images of the volcanic eruption in close proximity to Tonga are hugely concerning." New Zealand is located about 1,481 miles from Tonga.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Communication as a result of the eruption has been difficult, but our defence force team and Ministry of Foreign Affairs are working as we speak to establish what's needed and how we can help," she said.</p>

<p>The New Zealand foreign ministry said there were no reports of injuries or deaths as yet but communications were limited.</p>

<p>The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) Pacific Office in Suva, Fiji said it was monitoring the situation and had no updates on damages or casualties.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Island nation of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tonga?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tonga</a> is completely offline following a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tsunami?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tsunami</a> triggered by a massive volcanic eruption in the Pacific Ocean.<br />
<br />
According to <a href="https://twitter.com/kentikinc?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kentikinc</a> data, traffic volumes began to drop around 4:30 UTC (5:30pm local) before finally going to zero at 5:40 UTC (6:40pm local). <a href="https://t.co/g4QZilBrd5">pic.twitter.com/g4QZilBrd5</a></p>
— Doug Madory (@DougMadory) <a href="https://twitter.com/DougMadory/status/1482377945318625294?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I can't fathom seeing the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tonga?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tonga</a> Volcanic eruption in real-time from boat. This is insane.<a href="https://t.co/1dXRa0lX25">pic.twitter.com/1dXRa0lX25</a></p>
— Doc V (@MJVentrice) <a href="https://twitter.com/MJVentrice/status/1482437044785889286?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">GOES satellite imagery captured the eruption of an underwater volcano near Tonga in the Pacific Ocean early this morning. This eruption has caused a tsunami across portions coastal Alaska and California. <a href="https://t.co/C4Os9U6UIa">pic.twitter.com/C4Os9U6UIa</a></p>
— NWS Gray (@NWSGray) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSGray/status/1482387642092187649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Mannnn my heart hurts for my people rn 😭🇹🇴🙏🏽 <a href="https://t.co/QjzW5f1uAy">pic.twitter.com/QjzW5f1uAy</a></p>
— Aki🌴🇹🇴 (@ahkee_fifita) <a href="https://twitter.com/ahkee_fifita/status/1482231327982186496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Tsunami warnings were issued after a dramatic underwater volcano erupted off Tonga on Saturday (January 15). Advisories and evacuation orders were also issued on the shores of Tonga as well as several South Pacific islands.

Tsunami warnings were issued after a dramatic underwater volcano erupted off Tonga on Saturday (January 15). Advisories and evacuation orders were also issued on the shores of Tonga as well as several South Pacific islands. As circulated on social media forums, footage from such areas showed waves crashing into coastal homes. In the latest update, the tsunami threat from a powerful Tonga volcano eruption has passed, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said on Sunday, after powerful waves flooded coastlines from Japan to the United States. "Based on all available data, the tsunami threat from this volcanic eruption has now passed," the PTWC said at 0300 GMT, adding authorities at "impacted coastal areas should monitor... to determine when it is safe to resume normal activities" The massive explosion of the Hunga Tonga Hunga Ha'apai volcano was the latest in a series of eruptions. The satellite images showed the undersea volcanic eruption sending smoke and ash into the air. So far, there is no report of injuries or damage but in the aftermath, the phone lines and internet services have been impacted as many parts of Tonga are reportedly covered in ash and facing a near-total blackout. Tonga's capital is just 65km south of where the eruption took place. Tsunami advisories According to Australia's Bureau of Meteorology, a tsunami wave measuring 1.2 metres was observed in Tonga's capital Nuku'alofa and tsunami advisories were issued for other South Pacific islands. Tsunami advisories were issued for Hawaii, Alaska and the Pacific coast of the United States and Chile. Later, in some parts, the advisories were subsequently lifted. A tsunami advisory was also in effect for the US and Canadian Pacific coast, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Honolulu said. The National Weather Service said tsunami waves along the Oregon and southern Washington coast were expected imminently. As reported by Reuters, high waves were reported in Alaska and Hawaii earlier. In the San Francisco Bay Area of northern California, small parts of the cities of Berkeley and Albany near the bay were ordered to evacuate. Also, warnings of dangerous ocean waves were issued as far away as the US West Coast, parts of New Zealand and Japan, with authorities issuing advisories for people on their Pacific coastlines to get away from the shore as a precaution. The Japan Meteorological Agency said the tsunami reached the country's Pacific coast with waves as high as three meters possible. The agency said that a 1.2-metre wave reached the remote southern island of Amami Oshima and other areas. Chile's National Emergency Office ordered the evacuation of several coastal regions Saturday due to a minor Tsunami warning reported by the Hydrographic and Oceanographic Service of the Navy (SHOA). 1.14.2021: Large volcanic eruption near Tonga (Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcano) today as seen from outer space. Shown on visible imagery using the Himawari satellite. #hiwx #tsunami #earthquake pic.twitter.com/zOTj6Qu1Wv — NWSHonolulu (@NWSHonolulu) January 15, 2022 × pic.twitter.com/55catl3wex — NWSHonolulu (@NWSHonolulu) January 15, 2022 × New Zealand PM reacts New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said in a statement on Instagram: "The images of the volcanic eruption in close proximity to Tonga are hugely concerning." New Zealand is located about 1,481 miles from Tonga. "Communication as a result of the eruption has been difficult, but our defence force team and Ministry of Foreign Affairs are working as we speak to establish what's needed and how we can help," she said. The New Zealand foreign ministry said there were no reports of injuries or deaths as yet but communications were limited. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) Pacific Office in Suva, Fiji said it was monitoring the situation and had no updates on damages or casualties. Island nation of #Tonga is completely offline following a #tsunami triggered by a massive volcanic eruption in the Pacific Ocean. According to @kentikinc data, traffic volumes began to drop around 4:30 UTC (5:30pm local) before finally going to zero at 5:40 UTC (6:40pm local). pic.twitter.com/g4QZilBrd5 — Doug Madory (@DougMadory) January 15, 2022 × I can't fathom seeing the #tonga Volcanic eruption in real-time from boat. This is insane.pic.twitter.com/1dXRa0lX25 — Doc V (@MJVentrice) January 15, 2022 × GOES satellite imagery captured the eruption of an underwater volcano near Tonga in the Pacific Ocean early this morning. This eruption has caused a tsunami across portions coastal Alaska and California. pic.twitter.com/C4Os9U6UIa — NWS Gray (@NWSGray) January 15, 2022 × Mannnn my heart hurts for my people rn 😭🇹🇴🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/QjzW5f1uAy — Aki🌴🇹🇴 (@ahkee_fifita) January 15, 2022 ×

Tsunami threat from undersea volcano eruption in Tonga has now 'passed'

An underwater volcano has erupted in the Pacific island nation of Tonga. Tsunami threats have now been issued in New Zealand and some parts of the United States. There is a Tsunami alert for the US west coast and flooding in Hawaii after this eruption. The eruption has led to heavy rainfall, thunder and lightning in the island. Meanwhile fumes of smoke have blackened the skies sending powerful waves through the region. The eruption was so intense that Fiji which is more than 800 kms from Tonga also heard loud thunder sounds.

Tonga Underwater Volcano Eruption: Full extent of the damage remains unclear

Underwater volcano erupts in Pacific island nation of Tonga

<p>A tsunami warning was issued by the Pacific nation of Tonga on Saturday (January 15) after an undersea volcano erupted. The Tonga Meteorological Services said the tsunami warning was in effect for all of Tonga.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Media reports have stated that the massive explosion of the Hunga Tonga Hunga Ha'apai volcano was the latest in a series of eruptions. It was reportedly first erupted on Friday. CNN report mentioned it sent sending a plume of ash 20 kilometres into the air.</p>

<p>As per a news report by the Matangi Tonga news, scientists observed massive explosions, thunder and lightning near the volcano after it started erupting early Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the authorities in&nbsp;Fiji have also told the people to avoid the shoreline due to strong currents.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Residents have shared videos on social media platforms that showed large waves washing ashore in coastal areas.</p>

<p>Some parts of New Zealand could expect "strong and unusual currents and unpredictable surges at the shore following a large volcanic eruption," the National Emergency Management Agency said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said that the Tsunami warning for American Samoa has been cancelled but the authority continues to monitor tsunami activity in the Southwest Pacific.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Tonga's Hunga Tonga volcano just had one of the most violent volcano eruptions ever captured on satellite. <a href="https://t.co/M2D2j52gNn">pic.twitter.com/M2D2j52gNn</a></p>
— US StormWatch (@US_Stormwatch) <a href="https://twitter.com/US_Stormwatch/status/1482229220415721475?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Mannnn my heart hurts for my people rn 😭🇹🇴🙏🏽 <a href="https://t.co/QjzW5f1uAy">pic.twitter.com/QjzW5f1uAy</a></p>
— Aki🌴🇹🇴 (@ahkee_fifita) <a href="https://twitter.com/ahkee_fifita/status/1482231327982186496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Satellite imagery by NOAA of the violent tonga eruption. Shockwave and blast can be seen on the bottom left. <a href="https://t.co/jGaLiW2MbW">pic.twitter.com/jGaLiW2MbW</a></p>
— Global: MilitaryInfo (@Global_Mil_Info) <a href="https://twitter.com/Global_Mil_Info/status/1482237597003005952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Stay safe everyone 🇹🇴 <a href="https://t.co/OhrrxJmXAW">pic.twitter.com/OhrrxJmXAW</a></p>
— Dr Faka’iloatonga Taumoefolau (@sakakimoana) <a href="https://twitter.com/sakakimoana/status/1482218193619865600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


A tsunami warning was issued by the Pacific nation of Tonga on Saturday (January 15) after an undersea volcano erupted. The Tonga Meteorological Services said the tsunami warning was in effect for all of Tonga.

A tsunami warning was issued by the Pacific nation of Tonga on Saturday (January 15) after an undersea volcano erupted. The Tonga Meteorological Services said the tsunami warning was in effect for all of Tonga. Media reports have stated that the massive explosion of the Hunga Tonga Hunga Ha'apai volcano was the latest in a series of eruptions. It was reportedly first erupted on Friday. CNN report mentioned it sent sending a plume of ash 20 kilometres into the air. As per a news report by the Matangi Tonga news, scientists observed massive explosions, thunder and lightning near the volcano after it started erupting early Friday. Meanwhile, the authorities in Fiji have also told the people to avoid the shoreline due to strong currents. Residents have shared videos on social media platforms that showed large waves washing ashore in coastal areas. Some parts of New Zealand could expect "strong and unusual currents and unpredictable surges at the shore following a large volcanic eruption," the National Emergency Management Agency said. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said that the Tsunami warning for American Samoa has been cancelled but the authority continues to monitor tsunami activity in the Southwest Pacific. Tonga's Hunga Tonga volcano just had one of the most violent volcano eruptions ever captured on satellite. pic.twitter.com/M2D2j52gNn — US StormWatch (@US_Stormwatch) January 15, 2022 × Mannnn my heart hurts for my people rn 😭🇹🇴🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/QjzW5f1uAy — Aki🌴🇹🇴 (@ahkee_fifita) January 15, 2022 × Satellite imagery by NOAA of the violent tonga eruption. Shockwave and blast can be seen on the bottom left. pic.twitter.com/jGaLiW2MbW — Global: MilitaryInfo (@Global_Mil_Info) January 15, 2022 × Stay safe everyone 🇹🇴 pic.twitter.com/OhrrxJmXAW — Dr Faka’iloatonga Taumoefolau (@sakakimoana) January 15, 2022 ×

Video: Undersea volcano erupts in Tonga, tsunami warning issued

<p>Tonga's Prime Minister Pohiva Tu'i'onetoa, in a radio address, confirmed that the first case of the deadly coronavirus (COVID-19), has been reported in the island nation since the pandemic began last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the local media reports, a traveller from New Zealand has been tested positive. The infected person was among 215 passengers who arrived from the city of Christchurch. The news was confirmed on Friday and the media reports stated that the infected person is currently in a MIQ facility in Tonga.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-vows-to-defend-uk-interests-in-french-fishing-row-425166">Boris Johnson vows to defend UK interests in French fishing row</a></strong></p>

<p>Tongan PM has urged people to use the weekend to prepare for a potential lockdown next week, local media reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The reason the lockdown won't happen this weekend is because I have been advised that the virus will take more than three days to develop in someone who catches it before they become contagious. We should use this time to get ready in case more people are confirmed they have the virus," he said.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-decries-frances-seizure-of-fishing-boat-as-post-brexit-row-deepens-425168">UK decries France's seizure of fishing boat as post-Brexit row deepens</a></strong></p>

<p>On the other hand, New Zealand's Ministry of Health stated: "The case returned a negative pre-departure test before leaving New Zealand. They are fully vaccinated with the Pfizer BioNTech vaccine and had their second dose on 15 October."</p>

<p>"They were tested in routine Day 0 testing yesterday and returned a positive result today. The Ministry, along with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, is working with officials in Tonga to confirm the case. There will be further updates on this tomorrow," the statement added.&nbsp;</p>


Tonga's Prime Minister Pohiva Tu'i'onetoa, in a radio address, confirmed that the first case of the deadly coronavirus (COVID-19), has been reported in the island nation since the pandemic began last year.

Tonga's Prime Minister Pohiva Tu'i'onetoa, in a radio address, confirmed that the first case of the deadly coronavirus (COVID-19), has been reported in the island nation since the pandemic began last year. As per the local media reports, a traveller from New Zealand has been tested positive. The infected person was among 215 passengers who arrived from the city of Christchurch. The news was confirmed on Friday and the media reports stated that the infected person is currently in a MIQ facility in Tonga. ALSO READ | Boris Johnson vows to defend UK interests in French fishing row Tongan PM has urged people to use the weekend to prepare for a potential lockdown next week, local media reported. "The reason the lockdown won't happen this weekend is because I have been advised that the virus will take more than three days to develop in someone who catches it before they become contagious. We should use this time to get ready in case more people are confirmed they have the virus," he said. ALSO READ | UK decries France's seizure of fishing boat as post-Brexit row deepens On the other hand, New Zealand's Ministry of Health stated: "The case returned a negative pre-departure test before leaving New Zealand. They are fully vaccinated with the Pfizer BioNTech vaccine and had their second dose on 15 October." "They were tested in routine Day 0 testing yesterday and returned a positive result today. The Ministry, along with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, is working with officials in Tonga to confirm the case. There will be further updates on this tomorrow," the statement added.

Tonga reports its first-ever COVID-19 case, PM urges people to prepare for potential lockdown

Eua island in Tonga looks idyllic, but those living there are suffering the day-to-day realities of climate change. With high unemployment and the island's coral reefs eroded in part due to increased ocean temperatures, a project teaching islanders how to build canoes could help them adapt to the changing environment.

Canoe carving to protect coral reefs

Tonga and Fiji were bracing for potentially catastrophic damage as tropical cyclones Zazu and Yasa intensified off their coastlines

Fiji govt announces nationwide curfew as category-5 storm Yasa to make landfall

<p>Tonga has been plunged into virtual cyber darkness after an undersea cable broke, cutting off the Pacific island kingdom from almost all cell phone and Internet services.</p>

<p>While life without the Internet may be considered a paradise for many, Tonga relies heavily on links with the outside world for daily supplies and vital tourist earnings, and faced "an absolute disaster" as officials struggled to fix the problem.</p>

<p>"We are all heavily tied to the Internet for doing business and for the government," Mary Fonua, editor of the online news service Matangi Tonga, told AFP on Wednesday.</p>

<p>"<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/google-facebook-spend-big-on-us-lobbying-amid-policy-battles-192129">There's no Facebook</a>, which is how the Tongan diaspora communicate with each other, businesses can't get orders out, airlines can't take bookings for passengers or freight."&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the authorities look into the cause and struggle to find a solution, they have turned to a small, locally operated satellite connection as back-up.</p>

<p>In the meantime, non-essential social media sites like Facebook have been blocked to preserve much-needed bandwidth.</p>

<p>The restricted access also meant serious problems getting money transfers through for families who rely on income from relatives working overseas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's an absolute disaster for Tonga, a national crisis," Fonua said.</p>

<p>Tonga Cable, which administers the 827-kilometre (514-mile)cable between Tonga and Fiji, said Internet traffic had to be prioritised until repairs were completed, and in the meantime, social media websites may be blocked while the country of 110,000 relies on makeshift connectivity.</p>

<p>"Eighty per cent of our international traffic is from social media," Tonga Cable director Paula Piukala told Radio New Zealand.</p>

<p>"We may block Facebook, YouTube and stuff like that in the meantime so that we can maximise the small bandwidth that we have from satellite on what is important to the country."</p>

<p>At the Bank of South Pacific Tonga, acting operations manager Salesi Fineangano said telex transfers could be completed via satellite connection to the bank headquarters in Papua New Guinea, "but we need the regular internet connection for Moneygram, internet banking and emails".</p>

<p>Officials said it could take up to two weeks to fix the cable.</p>


Tonga has been plunged into virtual cyber darkness after an undersea cable broke, cutting off the Pacific island kingdom from almost all cell phone and Internet services.

Tonga has been plunged into virtual cyber darkness after an undersea cable broke, cutting off the Pacific island kingdom from almost all cell phone and Internet services. While life without the Internet may be considered a paradise for many, Tonga relies heavily on links with the outside world for daily supplies and vital tourist earnings, and faced "an absolute disaster" as officials struggled to fix the problem. "We are all heavily tied to the Internet for doing business and for the government," Mary Fonua, editor of the online news service Matangi Tonga, told AFP on Wednesday. "There's no Facebook, which is how the Tongan diaspora communicate with each other, businesses can't get orders out, airlines can't take bookings for passengers or freight." While the authorities look into the cause and struggle to find a solution, they have turned to a small, locally operated satellite connection as back-up. In the meantime, non-essential social media sites like Facebook have been blocked to preserve much-needed bandwidth. The restricted access also meant serious problems getting money transfers through for families who rely on income from relatives working overseas. "It's an absolute disaster for Tonga, a national crisis," Fonua said. Tonga Cable, which administers the 827-kilometre (514-mile)cable between Tonga and Fiji, said Internet traffic had to be prioritised until repairs were completed, and in the meantime, social media websites may be blocked while the country of 110,000 relies on makeshift connectivity. "Eighty per cent of our international traffic is from social media," Tonga Cable director Paula Piukala told Radio New Zealand. "We may block Facebook, YouTube and stuff like that in the meantime so that we can maximise the small bandwidth that we have from satellite on what is important to the country." At the Bank of South Pacific Tonga, acting operations manager Salesi Fineangano said telex transfers could be completed via satellite connection to the bank headquarters in Papua New Guinea, "but we need the regular internet connection for Moneygram, internet banking and emails". Officials said it could take up to two weeks to fix the cable.

Tonga cut off from Facebook, YouTube after undersea cable breaks

<p>&nbsp;A 6.4-magnitude earthquake hit in waters off the Pacific island nation of Tonga on Monday, the US Geological Survey said, but no tsunami warning was issued.</p>

<p>The quake struck at a moderate depth of 100 kilometres (62 miles) with the epicentre some 85 kilometres north of the Tongan capital Nuku'alofa.</p>

<p>There were no immediate reports of damage.</p>

<p>The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said there was no tsunami threat. Baea Filimoehala from the reception at the Emerald Hotel in Nuku'alofa told AFP there was no damage in the capital, describing the quake as a "small one".&nbsp;</p>


A 6.4-magnitude earthquake hit in waters off the Pacific island nation of Tonga on Monday, the US Geological Survey said, but no tsunami warning was issued. The quake struck at a moderate depth of 100 kilometres (62 miles) with the epicentre some 85 kilometres north of the Tongan capital Nuku'alofa.

A 6.4-magnitude earthquake hit in waters off the Pacific island nation of Tonga on Monday, the US Geological Survey said, but no tsunami warning was issued. The quake struck at a moderate depth of 100 kilometres (62 miles) with the epicentre some 85 kilometres north of the Tongan capital Nuku'alofa. There were no immediate reports of damage. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said there was no tsunami threat. Baea Filimoehala from the reception at the Emerald Hotel in Nuku'alofa told AFP there was no damage in the capital, describing the quake as a "small one".

6.4-magnitude earthquake hits off coast of Tonga: USGS

<p>An earthquake of 6.3 magnitude struck in the Pacific Ocean on Monday, 427 km southwest of the island of Tonga, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) said.</p>

<p>There were no immediate reports of any casualties or damage.The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center did not issue a tsunami warning.</p>


The Pacific Tsunami warning Center did not issue a tsunami warning

An earthquake of 6.3 magnitude struck in the Pacific Ocean on Monday, 427 km southwest of the island of Tonga, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) said. There were no immediate reports of any casualties or damage.The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center did not issue a tsunami warning.

6.3 earthquake strikes southwest Tonga, no tsunami warning

<p>Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks in Beijing with Tongan King Tupou VI Thursday, both agreeing to deepen the strategic partnership between China and Tonga.</p>

<p>Xi welcomed King Tupou VI&#39;s state visit on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. He also extended sincere condolences to the country which suffered serious devastation due to a serious storm.</p>

<p>Xi said King Tupou VI signed a joint communique with China 20 years ago when he visited China as foreign minister and defense minister. Xi said he hopes that the Tongan royal family continues to play a positive role in promoting China-Tonga relationship.</p>

<p>China and Pacific Ocean countries including Tonga are good friends that breathe the same breath, share the same future and mutual development, said the Chinese president. Xi said that the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) proposed to promote a new type of international relations featuring mutual respect, fairness and justice and win-win cooperation, as well as promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind. He added that the guidance will open up a broader prospect for China-Tonga relationship and their cooperation.</p>

<p>Xi also said the two countries should enhance high-level exchanges and cooperation at different levels, enhance political mutual trust and continue to understand and support each other on issues involving sovereignty, territorial integrity and national dignity.</p>

<p>On his part, King Tupou VI praised the leadership of Chinese President Xi Jinping as well as the assistance from China when his country was hit by the storm. He said Tonga agrees with China on its concept of building a new type of international relations. Tonga would like to enhance cooperation in various fields with China under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative.</p>

<p>The two heads of state jointly witnessed the signing of cooperative documents in various fields including economic and technological cooperation, human resource development and education. The two sides also issued a joint press communique.</p>

<p>King Tupou VI&#39;s visit to China was at the invitation of Xi.</p>

<p>Prior to the meeting, Xi held a ceremony to welcome the king, with a military band playing the national anthems of the two countries, and a 21-gun salute.</p>

<p>Xi&#39;s wife Peng Liyuan and State Councilor Yang Jiechi also attended the ceremony.</p>

<p>On Thursday afternoon, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang met with King Tupou VI in the Great Hall of the People.</p>

<p>Li said Tonga is a good friend and partner of China in the Pacific island region. The fruitful meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and King Tupou VI has strongly stimulated the progress of bilateral relations, Li said.</p>

<p>China appreciates Tonga for firmly following the one-China policy, Li said, adding that China would like to take the opportunity of the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties to further enhance the Sino-Tongan pragmatic cooperation in various fields.</p>

<p>King Tupou VI said the bilateral relationship of the two countries has maintained a steady and healthy development progress. Tonga firmly adheres to the one-China policy and would like to deepen political mutual trusts and expand cooperation with China, said the king.</p>


Chinese President Xi Jinping welcomed King Tupou VI's state visit on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. He also extended sincere condolences to the country which suffered serious devastation due to a serious storm

Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks in Beijing with Tongan King Tupou VI Thursday, both agreeing to deepen the strategic partnership between China and Tonga. Xi welcomed King Tupou VI's state visit on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. He also extended sincere condolences to the country which suffered serious devastation due to a serious storm. Xi said King Tupou VI signed a joint communique with China 20 years ago when he visited China as foreign minister and defense minister. Xi said he hopes that the Tongan royal family continues to play a positive role in promoting China-Tonga relationship. China and Pacific Ocean countries including Tonga are good friends that breathe the same breath, share the same future and mutual development, said the Chinese president. Xi said that the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) proposed to promote a new type of international relations featuring mutual respect, fairness and justice and win-win cooperation, as well as promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind. He added that the guidance will open up a broader prospect for China-Tonga relationship and their cooperation. Xi also said the two countries should enhance high-level exchanges and cooperation at different levels, enhance political mutual trust and continue to understand and support each other on issues involving sovereignty, territorial integrity and national dignity. On his part, King Tupou VI praised the leadership of Chinese President Xi Jinping as well as the assistance from China when his country was hit by the storm. He said Tonga agrees with China on its concept of building a new type of international relations. Tonga would like to enhance cooperation in various fields with China under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative. The two heads of state jointly witnessed the signing of cooperative documents in various fields including economic and technological cooperation, human resource development and education. The two sides also issued a joint press communique. King Tupou VI's visit to China was at the invitation of Xi. Prior to the meeting, Xi held a ceremony to welcome the king, with a military band playing the national anthems of the two countries, and a 21-gun salute. Xi's wife Peng Liyuan and State Councilor Yang Jiechi also attended the ceremony. On Thursday afternoon, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang met with King Tupou VI in the Great Hall of the People. Li said Tonga is a good friend and partner of China in the Pacific island region. The fruitful meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and King Tupou VI has strongly stimulated the progress of bilateral relations, Li said. China appreciates Tonga for firmly following the one-China policy, Li said, adding that China would like to take the opportunity of the 20th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties to further enhance the Sino-Tongan pragmatic cooperation in various fields. King Tupou VI said the bilateral relationship of the two countries has maintained a steady and healthy development progress. Tonga firmly adheres to the one-China policy and would like to deepen political mutual trusts and expand cooperation with China, said the king.

China, Tonga agree to promote strategic partnership

tonga

Tonga, News on Tonga, stories on Tonga, articles on Tonga, Tonga stories at Wion, Tonga news, Tonga latest news