Tofua volcano is classified as a large stratovolcano, also described as a steep-sided composite cone. A defining feature of Tofua is its prominent summit caldera, a large, basin-shaped depression formed by the collapse of the volcanic edifice following a major eruption, taking place between 1044 and 1158 CE. Within this caldera lies a freshwater lake, which partially fills the depression. Situated at the northern end of this caldera lake are three post-caldera cones, which represent renewed volcanic activity after the initial caldera formation. The easternmost of these cones exhibits three distinct craters and has produced young basaltic-andesite lava flows, some of which have extended into the caldera lake. The largest and northernmost of these post-caldera cones is named Lofia. Lofia is particularly significant as it has been the source of most historical eruptions and exhibits ongoing degassing and strombolian activity. More recently, the crater has deepened significantly, now reaching at least 500 meters deep. A persistent lava lake is also present.
Historical records indicate that the first volcanic eruptions at Tofua were reported in the 18th century, originating from the Lofia cone within the caldera. Geological evidence suggests that there have been at least 12 eruptions since 1774. Notable historical eruptions include those in 1774 (observed by Captain Cook), 1792, 1854, 1885, 1889, and 1906, with the 1906 eruption reportedly producing three new cones within the crater. A significant eruption occurred between 1958 and 1959, which was substantial enough to cause the evacuation of most islanders for a year or more. In April 2024, an unusual increase in activity was observed, marked by numerous eruptive events and an ash plume reaching a significant altitude. This led to a temporary increase in alert levels. However, by late May 2024, the elevated activity had ceased, and the characteristics of the thermal anomaly indicated a return to baseline levels.
| Location: | Haʻapai, Tonga |
| Coordinates: | -19.752089, -175.068030 |
| Volcano Type: | Caldera |
Tofua’s Location
Tofua’s Latest Status
2025: In July 2025, an expedition by Extreme Pursuit to Tofua documented a range of notable volcanic activities. We observed the constant degassing of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and water vapor, accompanied by low-frequency rumbling noises. The area was littered with thousands of fresh lava bombs, indicating recent eruptions. The most significant finding was the presence of a lava lake, which was roughly the size of a tennis court. At night, an orange glow was observed emanating from the cone.
Tofua’s Eruptive History
| Year | Overview |
|---|---|
| 1774 | Smoke observed above the volcano by Captain Cook, suggesting at least low-level activity or steaming. |
| 1792 | Possible eruption, but records are less certain. Could indicate a similar level of activity as in 1774. |
| 1854 | Confirmed eruption. More substantial activity likely occurred to warrant this designation. |
| 1885 | Confirmed eruption. |
| 1889 | Minor eruptions, suggesting smaller-scale explosive events or lava flows. |
| 1906 | Formation of three new volcanic cones within the caldera, accompanied by lava flowing into the caldera lake. This indicates a significant eruptive episode. |
| 1958-1959 | A period of significant eruptions prompting the evacuation of the island. This likely involved multiple explosive events, substantial lava flows, and potential ashfall. |
| 2004 | Intermittent explosions observed in the crater, likely generating ash and volcanic projectiles. |
| 2006-2009 | Periods of lava incandescence in the Lofia crater, indicating the presence of flowing lava or a very hot lava lake. |
| 2015 | Intermittent thermal anomalies and sulfur dioxide emissions suggest ongoing activity. This could include low-level lava effusion, steaming, or small explosions within the crater. |
| 2023 | Expedition by Tonga Geological Services, droned a small lava pond within Tofua’s active crater. |
| 2024 | A series of high thermal anomalies were recorded within the Lofia cone. |
| 2025 | In July 2025, an expedition by Extreme Pursuit to Tofua documented a range of notable volcanic activities. We observed the constant degassing of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and water vapor, accompanied by low-frequency rumbling noises. The area was littered with thousands of fresh lava bombs, indicating recent eruptions. The most significant finding was the presence of a lava lake, which was roughly the size of a tennis court. At night, an orange glow was observed emanating from the cone. |
Tofua Monitoring
Please refer to Tonga Geological Services for monitoring of this volcano.
Tofua Images
