OCHA says there are particular concerns about two small lower-lying islands, Mango and Fonoi. An active distress signal was detected from Mango. “Communication remains the biggest challenge, the internet and international telephone connections are still not working,” says OCHA. “Satellite telephones are the only reliable means of communication with the outside world. But they cannot always be trusted,” it sounds.
Satellite images show extensive damage on the western beaches of main island Tongatapu. Several resorts and homes have been destroyed or severely damaged, OCHA said.
Due to the difficult communication, it is currently still not possible to fully map out the situation and humanitarian needs. “The Tonga government is investigating the needs.”
The volcanic eruption led to quakes and a tsunami that reached Alaska, Japan and South America.