A fascinating event is happening in the South Pacific. A new volcanic island is rising from the ocean’s depths. This island, found in Tonga’s Home Reef, formed from a series of underwater eruptions. It first appeared in 2022 and has grown significantly into early 2025. Scientists are eager to see how long it will last.
Images captured by satellites show the island’s stunning changes. Fresh lava flows are cooling and turning into solid rock. As eruptions continue, the landscape shifts rapidly, giving researchers a unique chance to witness the creation of new land. Unlike previous volcanic islands in this region, which often vanish after a few months, experts believe this island has a better chance of survival.
Since its appearance, the island has grown a lot. After breaking through the ocean in 2022, it expanded through several eruptions. Major activity was recorded in September 2023, January 2024, and June 2024. In fact, the most recent eruptions in late 2024 added another 3.7 hectares (9.1 acres) to its size, bringing it to over 15 hectares (37 acres) total.
NASA’s Landsat satellites have taken incredible before-and-after pictures, showing how lava deposits have changed the coastline. The water surrounding the island appears discolored, hinting at ongoing volcanic activity.
“The greenish hue is likely from sulfur mixing with ocean water,” explained Cornel de Ronde, a geologist. This sulfur-rich water indicates that volcanic gases continue to seep out, signifying that the formation process of the island is ongoing.
The Home Reef volcanic system is located in the Tonga-Kermadec subduction zone. This area is known for its geological activity, where three tectonic plates meet. It is responsible for some of the most powerful volcanic eruptions we have seen. For example, the 2022 eruption of Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha‘apai sent ash around the globe and triggered a massive tsunami.
Even though the Home Reef volcano hasn’t been as explosive, scientists keep a close watch on it. They’re interested in how marine life reacts to the island’s growth. Some eruptions can destroy ecosystems, while others may boost life by releasing minerals that support ocean creatures. However, the high heat and acidity of these eruptions can harm marine species, making the long-term effects hard to predict.
One urgent question remains: Will this island last, or will it erode like past islands? Historically, islands formed by Home Reef’s eruptions have often disappeared after a short time due to wave action. Researchers think this new island might survive longer because it is forming differently.
“Previous islands had more explosive eruptions, which created loose, erodible material,” said Simon Plank, a researcher. “In contrast, this island is forming from solid lava flows, giving it a better chance to endure.”
If this island continues to grow as it has, it might establish a solid landscape, creating an opportunity for life to flourish. Early colonizers like bacteria, algae, and seabirds often make their home on new volcanic lands, setting the stage for a unique ecosystem.
Studying volcanic islands is essential for understanding new landforms and ecosystem development. They also serve as important sites for learning about tectonic activity and spotting early warning signs of larger eruptions.
Today, satellite technology enables scientists to observe these changes efficiently. Unlike before, when researchers relied on limited ground observations, modern satellites allow for real-time monitoring of volcanic activity.
As the Home Reef island continues to grow, scientists remain vigilant, eager to see if it will become a lasting part of the Pacific landscape or eventually fade away beneath the waves.
