Chilling new photos reveal the devastation in Tonga after a volcanic eruption and tsunami caused widespread damage.
So far three people are confirmed dead after the Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai volcano erupted on Saturday. The eruption triggered a tsunami and blanketed the island nation in ash. It also knocked out power and damaged communications infrastructure.
Now new photos show the chilling extent of the damage. The photos, posted to Twitter by the Tongan Consulate, show a thick layer of ash covering everything in sight, including houses and cars.
In one photo, a lone house can be seen standing while rubble and flattened trees surround it.
Other photos emerging online show houses completely destroyed and trees flattened. Locals can also be seen clearing up as recovery efforts begin.
Photos from the western tip of Tongatapu - the main island - show Ha'atafu Beach Resort is flattened. The resort, which is popular among tourists, has been completely destroyed.
The owners posted photos on Facebook showing the devastation on Wednesday.
"Ha'atafu Beach Resort is now unrecognisable and it's a miracle everyone got out to safety," they wrote.
"We continue to be humbled by all the beautiful messages and support you have shown on our page. A massive thank you also for your heart to give by donating to help our Haatafu Beach families."
One photo shows only the building's foundations are left. Large trees can also be seen uprooted nearby.
It comes after satellite images released by the United Nations earlier in the week revealed several islands were completely destroyed, while others were covered in thick ash.
The runway at Fuaʻamotu International Airport - the main airport in Tonga - is also badly damaged.
Two New Zealand navy vessels are en route to Tonga with critical water supplies.
The Red Cross said saltwater from the tsunami and ash is polluting drinking water.
"Securing access to safe drinking water is a critical immediate priority ... as there is a mounting risk of diseases, such as cholera and diarrhoea," Red Cross spokesperson Katie Greenwood said in a statement.
It comes as the Tongan Government officially declared a state of emergency on Thursday.
Details for how to help Tonga can be found here.
