A new island has emerged in the southwest Pacific Ocean after an underwater volcano near Tonga erupted, though its existence may only be transitory, according to NASA’s Earth Observatory.
The Home Reef volcano in the Central Tonga Islands began to erupt on Sept. 10, oozing lava, emitting steam and ash, and discoloring the surrounding water. NASA said the new island was formed 11 hours later.
On Sept. 14, the Tonga Geological Services estimated that the island was 4,000 square meters in size (equivalent to 1 acre) and 10 meters above sea level. It grew to 24,000 square meters (6 acres) six days later, NASA said.
NASA reports that Home Reef has seen four eruptions, including events in 1852, 1857, and 1984, which resulted in the formation of new islands each time….