An underwater volcano in the South Pacific erupted violently on 15th January 2022, causing tsunamis to hit Hawaii, Japan, and Tonga’s largest island, Tongatapu sending waves flooding into the capital.

The eruptions sent a plume of ash, gas and steam 20 kilometers into the air. Satellite imagery showed a massive ash cloud and shockwaves spreading from the eruption.

The eruption caused a severe tsunami on Tongatapu, where the capital is located, with waves flowing onto coastal roads and flooding properties.