By Staff Writer.
Another large eruption of the Tongan volcano has been recorded this morning, following Saturday’s explosion and subsequent tsunami. This latest eruption is currently unfolding.
Australia has offered the Tongan government support in the wake of the devastating tsunami that hit the Pacific Island nation.
The Australian federal government says the Government of Tonga has agreed to the offer of a surveillance flight of the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai volcano.
An ADF P-8 has been sent to assess damage to critical infrastructure such as roads, ports and powerlines, which will determine the next phase of the response effort.
“Australia is ready to immediately respond to requests for assistance with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Department of Defence coordinating critical humanitarian supplies for disaster relief” said Senator Zed Seselja, Australian Minister for International Development and the Pacific.
The eruption on Saturday was so powerful it was recorded around the world, triggering a tsunami that flooded Pacific coastlines from Japan to the United States. All beaches along the east coast of Australia were also closed, with a severe marine warning issued over the weekend.
Internet to Tonga has been cut off leaving friends and family members around the world unable to make contact. With the pacific nation completely off-line, grave concerns are held for survivors trying to maintain communication and access safety information.
“While communications remain limited we are continuing to receive regular updates through our High Commission in Tonga, with early reports of substantial ash coverage around Nuku’alofa and coastal inundation and damage to infrastructure” said Senator Zed Seselja.
Firsthand accounts of the eruption are filling social media, including that of first responders.
“There are brave scientists & first responders in Tonga who are doing their best to get information out & needed resources & help in. There are heroes in every catastrophe. It takes courage to face an erupting volcano & its aftermath.” said one tweet with an image of three people from Tonga Geological Services watching the eruption from a boat.
Tonga Geological Services team watching Tongan Volcano Eruption on Saturday (Twitter)
There are reports of significant damage to boats and shops along the Tongan coastline.
World Health Organization chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus tweeted the World Health Organisation was “ready to support the government and provide help to the people affected”.
There are concerns the devastation will worsen, with warnings issued for further explosive eruptions as well as the impact of volcanic ash covering the island.
DFAT is still seeking to confirm the welfare of Australians, permanent residents, and their families, with communication outages significantly hindering the process.
Those concerned about Australian citizens in Tonga should contact DFAT on 1300 555 135 or +61 2 6261 3305.
