AFP "False Report of 'Another Large Eruption Near Tonga'" (Comprehensive Report 2)

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] AFP news agency has corrected reports claiming that another large-scale volcanic eruption was observed near the South Pacific island nation of Tonga, stating that these reports are not true.

On the 17th, AFP stated, "No new eruptions have been confirmed by observation stations," and "We retract a series of urgent articles reporting 'another large-scale volcanic eruption detected near Tonga.'"

Earlier, AFP had reported around 11:10 AM that a large volcanic explosion was detected near Tonga, citing an observation station in Darwin, Australia. The U.S. Pacific Tsunami Warning Center also reported detecting large waves in the area.

On the 15th, the underwater Tonga Hunga Ha'apai volcano, located 65 km north of the capital Nuku?alofa, erupted on a large scale. The volcanic ash emitted at that time flew as far as 260 km away.

Although the exact scale of casualties has not yet been confirmed, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies estimates that up to 80,000 people have been affected.

Katie Greenwood, head of the Pacific delegation, told the BBC, "It is estimated that up to 80,000 people in Tonga have been affected by the volcanic eruption, tsunami, and flooding of homes," adding, "Communication with Tonga is not functioning normally. Humanitarian aid is urgently needed for the residents."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.