Satellites have captured the moment Tonga's Hunga Tonga-Hunga Haʻapai volcano erupted and sent shockwaves across the South Pacific.
As reported by CNN, the volcano first erupted on Friday, resulting in a plume of ash sent bellowing 20km (12.4 miles) into the atmosphere. A second eruption reportedly hit on Saturday at 5:26PM local time.
The Hunga Tonga-Hunga Haʻapai volcano is located roughly 30km (18.5 miles) southeast of Tonga's Fonuafo'ou island, and 65km south of Tonga's capital, Nuku'alofa. There have already been witness reports of ash falling in Nuku'alofa, as well as waves flooding properties and coastal roads.
Satellite images later shared to social media show the devastating impact of the eruption, as a gigantic ash cloud emerges from the Earth. A selection of these images can be seen below:
Following a warning to residents, BBC News reports that a subsequent tsunami caused by the eruption has now hit the Pacific country. Additionally, the Fijian Government has issued a tsunami advisory and New Zealand officials have warned of storm surges, despite being more than 2,300km away.
According to the NWS Pacific Tsunami Warning Center, a tsunami warning for American Samoa has been called off.
Per CNN, Tonga's largest island, Tongatapu, has seen waves flooding into the streets.
Videos showing waves hitting the coastlines have since been shared to social media (although, at this time, these videos are unverified):
CNN adds that as well as the tsunami warning, Tonga's Meteorological Services have warned of strong winds and heavy rain.
Our thoughts are with all nearby residents of the eruption. Stay safe.
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