Eruption of the volcanoes Hunga Tonga and Hunga Ha’apai

People living on Tongatapu and other nearby islands were hit by waves from the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai volcano when it erupted on Saturday, January 15. Further eruptions and volcanic ash falls could happen in the area. Damage has been done to telecommunications and other infrastructure. Monitor the media for the most recent news and follow the advice of local authorities.

Tsunamis

It is possible for tsunamis to happen in Tonga, but they are rare. A tsunami can arrive minutes after a tremor or earthquake in the area.

Being near the Tonga Trench means that strong earthquakes in the area could cause a huge tsunami to hit in 20 minutes.

To get tsunami alerts, sign up with:

As soon as you’re near the coast, move up to higher ground right away. Do this if the local government tells you to, or if you:

It feels like strong shaking that makes it hard to stand up.
I felt a small, rolling earthquake that lasted for a minute or more.

There aren’t going to be any official signs that something bad is going to happen, like alarms or sirens.

Once you’re on high ground, keep an eye on the local media and the Tonga Meteorological Service.

Earthquakes

Tonga has earthquakes.

Get to know the earthquake safety measures for each place you stay and visit. This will help you stay safe. Ask your hotel or host if they can help you.

As soon as there’s a quake,

Think about the risk of tsunamis.
Follow-up quakes and travel delays are likely.
Make sure that your travel plans have been agreed upon by agents and tour operators.

There is more:

Stormy weather

Tonga can be hit by natural disasters and bad weather like cyclones, earthquakes, and tsunamis.

When there is a disaster, the Tongan National Emergency Management Office gives updates on Radio 1 at the frequency of 1017AM when the radio is on.

If there is a natural disaster,

Keep your passport in a safe, waterproof place.
Keep an eye on local media and other sources.
Follow the advice of the people in your area.
Keep in touch with your family and friends.

If you’re going to be in the area after a natural disaster or during cyclone season, ask your tour operator or airline if it will change your plans.

Tropical storms and cyclones are two types of storms that happen in the tropical zone.

November to April is the cyclone season, and it lasts from that time to the next. However, tropical storms and cyclones can happen at any time of year. This kind of weather can cause flooding, strong winds, and problems with service.

Changes can happen very quickly in the direction and strength of cyclones. If there is a cyclone or a tropical storm, then you should stay away from it.

You might get stuck in this area.
Flights could be delayed or canceled because of bad weather.
There may be a lot of people who want to fly.
Port access may be cut off.
There may not be enough space for everyone.

In the event of a cyclone or tropical storm,

If you know how to get out of your hotel or cruise ship, figure out where the nearest shelter is.