Underwater volcano erupts near Tonga

On January 15, the underwater Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai volcano erupted, triggering tsunami waves across the Pacific Ocean. The Polynesian kingdom of Tonga took a direct hit with ash and water covering entire communities—more than 80% of the nation’s population was affected. 

Injuries, loss of homes, and polluted water have all been reported, however, because Tonga’s single system of communications was damaged in the eruption, the full extent of the impact remained unknown for the first few days. 

Although closed borders and safety protocols due to the pandemic in Tonga made it challenging for WCK to be on the ground, the Relief Team arrived in Fiji where we worked with local groups to send much needed assistance via water transport, including a WCK ship. Additionally, our teamsupported resorts and restaurants in the affected areas to cook for families in need.