View of Tonga on January 18, 2022 after the volcanic eruption.

So just how big was the eruption, which could be seen via satellite?

According to NASA, it was more powerful than the nuclear bomb dropped on Hiroshima during World War II.

Tonga After Volcanic Eruption

View of Tonga on January 18, 2022 after the volcanic eruption. (Photo:NZ Defence Forcevia Wikipedia)

Hunga-Tonga-Hunga-Haapai erupted on January 15, sending off a massive amount of ash and smoke into the atmosphere.

Satellite view of the volcanic eruption near Tonga.

(Image: NOAA/NESDIS/STAR)

Since the eruption, communication with Tonga has been scarce.

Satellite Image of Volcanic Eruption in Tonga

Satellite view of the volcanic eruption near Tonga. (Image: NOAA/NESDIS/STAR)

Luckily, the first relief planes were able to land on Thursday.

Many aerial photos are showing the unfortunate destruction that the volcano left in its wake.

Many homes have been damaged or have simply disappeared.

While few deaths have been reported, that could change as more information comes to light.

Already, one story is emerging that captures the resilience of the Tongan people.

Here’s hoping that more heartwarming stories such as these will emerge.