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Hunga-Tonga - a Volcanic Eruption That Alarmed Scientists

August 25, 2023

Volcanoes can pose major dangers. The eruption in 2022 of the underwater Hunga Tonga volcano in the South Pacific alarmed scientists. It was the most powerful ever measured with modern instruments.

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Tonga | Vulkanausbruch Unterwasservulkan Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai
Image: Tonga Geological Services/REUTERS

When the underwater volcano Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai blew up in the South Pacific in January of 2022, the effects were felt around the world. Researchers saw the huge eruption as a warning signal. Many are now calling for better early warning systems. 

 

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