A rumble echoed around the world for nine days. Here’s what caused it.

What happened?

On January 15, 2022, a volcano erupted in Tonga, sending a plume of ash and gas high into the atmosphere. The eruption triggered a tsunami that traveled across the Pacific Ocean, causing damage in Tonga, Fiji, Samoa, and other countries. The eruption was so powerful that it was heard around the world, and the ash cloud was visible from space.

What caused the eruption?

The eruption was caused by the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcano, which is located in the Tonga-Kermadec Trench. The volcano is part of a chain of volcanoes that formed as the Pacific Plate subducts beneath the Indo-Australian Plate. When the Pacific Plate moves beneath the Indo-Australian Plate, it melts and rises to the surface, forming volcanoes.

What were the effects of the eruption?

The eruption had a devastating impact on Tonga. The tsunami waves destroyed homes, businesses, and infrastructure. The ash cloud contaminated the water supply and caused respiratory problems. The eruption also caused a drop in air quality in many parts of the world.

What is the future outlook?

The eruption has had a long-lasting impact on Tonga. The country is still recovering from the damage, and the economy has been severely affected. The eruption has also raised concerns about the potential for future eruptions in the Tonga-Kermadec Trench.