A large fire broke out in central Nuku‘alofa overnight, with livestreamed videos showing firefighters battling towering flames and thick smoke rising from what appeared to be a building in the CBD.
Footage shared on social media showed flames shooting high into the air as Tonga Fire and Emergency Services crews worked to contain the blaze.
Reports suggest the fire broke out at the Tonga Hou’eiki Church office in Nuku‘alofa.
A livestreamer could be heard saying the fire was “difficult to kill at this stage,” as the flames continued to spread.
Police officers in full Tongan police uniform were seen directing traffic and keeping crowds of bystanders at a safe distance.
The intensity of the fire prompted people nearby to step back as smoke billowed across parts of the central business district.
The exact location of the burning building and the cause of the fire have not yet been confirmed.
Tonga Fire & Emergency Services has not released an official statement.
No injuries have been reported so far.
Kaniva Tonga News will provide updates as more information becomes available.
