Pacific – Tsunami alert issued following volcanic eruption in Tonga

The U.S. Meteorological Agency on Saturday advised coastal people from California to Alaska to “stay away from beaches, harbors and marinas.” Fiji, Vanuatu and New Zealand have also warned their citizens of a possible tsunami.

U.S. meteorologists have warned of 60-centimeter-high waves, rapid currents and flooding along the coast. The island of Hawaii has already been hit by “minor flooding”. In Tonga, following the eruption of the Hanga-Tonga-Hunga-Ha’bai volcano, local media reported that waves had swept away property on the main island of Tongatabu. Gray rain and phone connections were down.

Waves of about one meter were reported off the coast of northeastern Iwad province and southwest Amami, according to Japanese media reports on Sunday morning (local time). There was no immediate word on damage or injuries. Residents in the area have been advised to remain vigilant until the tsunami alert is lifted.

The extent of the damage was not immediately clear until late in the evening (local time). According to media reports, King Tubo VI of Tonga. Brought safely from the royal palace in the capital Nuku’aloba. A 1.2 meter high wave was observed in the city, according to the Australian Meteorological Center. Authorities in other Pacific countries, including Fiji, Samoa and New Zealand, have also issued tsunami warnings. People have been advised to stay away from coastal areas.

The U.S. National Weather Service (NOAA) announced Saturday that the effects could be felt in parts of the country’s west coast and in Alaska. Tsunami alert issued for Hawaii However, no damage has been reported so far. The US Meteorological Agency has issued a tsunami alert for Samoa. The volcanic eruption led to a tsunami. Based on the available data, the tsunami risk may be considered over, but it said there could still be fluctuations in sea level.

The volcano erupted on Friday. According to local officials, only small tsunami waves of up to 30 centimeters were recorded the previous day. Hunga-Tonga-Hunga-Ha’apai has been active since December. The volcano is located about 30 km southeast of Tonga’s Fonuafo Island (also known as the Balkan Islands).