Tonga Volcanic Eruption
date:
1/26/2022
On January 14, 2022, a volcanic eruption and subsequent tsunami in Tonga left homes destroyed and resulted in thousands evacuated and a rising death toll.
The small island nation remains all but cut off from the outside world as damaged fibre-optic cables limit communications and ash from the eruption affects water supplies and prevents air arrivals.
The Tongan government yesterday issued its first official statement since the eruption, describing the incident an "unprecedented disaster”. Whilst the full scale of the damage is being assessed, satellite images show smoke and ashes blanketing houses in Nuku'alofa, on the north coast of the island of Tongatapu. Fonoifua Island sustained extensive damage with all but the largest buildings destroyed or severely damaged and only two houses remaining on the island. Mango Island suffered catastrophic damage with an evacuation process underway after all houses were destroyed.
Despite limited communications, it is clear that there will be a significant emergency relief effort and longer term recovery for the people of Tonga. New Zealand Regional Hospitaller, Bevan Killick, who has numerous connections in Tonga is making enquiries as to how we can best assist.
In response to the crisis, the Federal Association has donated $2,500 to the Order of Malta-Australian Association's Emergency Relief Fund which will support those affected by the January 2022 volcano and subsequent tsunami in Tonga.
Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of St John of Jerusalem of Rhodes and of Malta
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