"Securing access to safe drinking water is a critical immediate priority as there is a mounting risk of diseases such as cholera and diarrhoea," a Red Cross official says.
Most of the homes on three of Tonga's smaller islands have been "completely destroyed" by the tsunami that followed Saturday's undersea volcanic eruption, the Red Cross has said.
With communications down, a ship made it to Nomuka, Mango and Fonoifua on Wednesday, an official said.
Few homes are said to remain standing after settlements were hit by 15m (49ft) waves.
"Very unfortunate information has come to light overnight about the three islands that we were really worried about," the Red Cross's Katie Greenwood said.
"They have all suffered devastating consequences as an effect of these incoming waves. Most of the structures and dwellings on those islands have been completely destroyed."
Images believed to be from the village of Kanokupolu, on the island of Tongatapu, show trees down and debris strewn across the ground.
Two New Zealand navy vessels are due to arrive in Tonga on Friday, carrying critical water supplies.
"Securing access to safe drinking water is a critical immediate priority as there is a mounting risk of diseases such as cholera and diarrhoea," Ms Greenwood said.
No comments:
Post a Comment