Tonga erupts in 2022: Public observations and scientific data highlight Hunga volcano’s global impact

On January 15, 2022, the Hunga volcano near Tonga erupted in an explosive event that sent a shockwave across the planet. The eruption occurred around the same time as Cyclone Cody. This created a shockwave powerful enough to trigger low, booming sounds that were heard from New Zealand to Alaska. It also caused a tsunami that hit distant shores, making the eruption one of the most significant volcanic events in recent memory.

Public observations fill scientific data gaps

Following After the eruption, GNS Science, New Zealand’s geological agency, invited locals to share their experiences. More than 2,100 people responded, reporting everything from roaring and pressure in their ears to rattling windows and animals’ reactions to the disturbance. By comparing these accounts with seismic and atmospheric sensor data, scientists confirmed that these direct experiments accurately reflected the instrument readings.

According to Dr Emily Lane, a senior scientist at GNS, information provided by people across New Zealand helped researchers understand trends in how sound propagated across the country. Most reports of loud “booms” came from the North Island, suggesting that the pressure wave from the eruption spread from north to south. The details in these reports offered scientists information that even precise instruments could not capture on their own.

New directions for disaster preparedness

Participatory observations also revealed how people reacted when they heard the booming sounds. Many checked on family or went outside to assess the situation, while others contacted their friends to make sure they were safe. Several interviewees mentioned remembering previous volcanic eruptions, demonstrating how past experiences can influence responses to natural events.

GNS researchers are currently exploring ways to use this type of reporting to track geohazards, such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Combining public observations with scientific data could improve preparedness for future disasters, giving communities an additional level of awareness and response to support public safety and resilience.