Reports of fluctuations in sea-level recorded in the island of Mango have forced authorities to alert the public this morning of possible tsunami waves to hit Tonga.
Tonga Met Service said Mango town officer has reported unusual sea waves in the island.
There were also reports of unusual sea activities this morning at waterfronts between Vuna wharf and Yellow Pier in Nuku’alofa.
Authorities believed there was a link between the activities and last night’s Hunga Tonga Hunga Ha’apai islands new activities.
“A tsunami alert will remain in effect for all of Tonga,” Tonga MetService said.
No details have been released.
“Based on the abnormal tide observation reported from the town officer of Mango island and the Nuku’alofa marine and ports and its relevant to the ongoing volcanic eruption in the Hunga-Tonga Hunga-Ha’apai area, a tsunami marine warning is now in force for Tonga”, Met Service said.
“Public are advised to keep away from low lying coastal areas, reefs and beaches. Mariners out at sea are advised to prepare to move to deep water.
The next bulletin will be issued as soon as new information is received. Listen to Radio Tonga”.
The warnings came after foul-smelling gases were reported in Nuku’alofa and Ha’apai this morning. People had been warned to wear mask and stay inside their house.
There were also reports of apparent toxic dusts noticed at the Ha’apai group.
Residents in Tongatapu, Vava’u and Ha’apai have been warned to remove guttering systems from rainwater tank storage until the eruption finishes. These should not be reinstalled until after the next rainfall, to reduce the risk of contamination.
