THE TONGAN ERUPTION.

Kumara Times, Issue 3101, 11 October 1886, Page 3

THE TONGAN ERUPTION.

FURTHER DETAILS.—A SCENE OF TERROR. [press association telegram.] Auckland, October 6. The Arawata, which at rived this morning, brings further details of the earthquake which has occurred at Niuafou, The eruption commenced at one side of a lake which is formed in the centre of the island. On 12th Angnst, a most severe earthqnake was fell and a large fissure was made in some of the rocks. On 30th August a great number of shocks were felt an til half-past one on the 31st, when the eruption commenced with a tremendous repott. The terrified natives immediately left their respective villages and fled to the mountain. The volcano continued in active eruption for several clays, throwing up vast quantities of sand and stones. A mound of considerable height has been formed in the lake, and many millions of tons of sand have been deposited upon the isluid, varying in depth from a few inches to several fathoms. The whole scene presents a most desolate appearance. Fruit trees have been destroyed, and the falling sand and water must seriously affect the bread fruit, trees. The whole of the larger trees have been literally crushed down by the quantity of sand which has fallen upon the branches. Many of the houses have been broken down by the weight of smid and debris testing upon them. The outlook in a cheerless one, and many of the natives would leave at once if they could. It is expected that when the King makes his annual visit many will be removed to other places. The Premier has made arrangements for an early supply of food to be distributed. The volcanic eruption at Niuafou took place on the same day (31st August) as the severe earthquakes are reported to have occurred in the United States of America and in some parts of the south of Europe. The captain of ihe Suva acted nobly in aiding the suffering islanders. The arrival of the steamer at Niuafou filled the hearts of the people with gladness. The escape of the inhabitants seems to have been little less than marvellous. Captain Dodd, of the Suva, found the natives huddled together at one end of the island in a state of great terror, and anxious to leave the place as speedily as possible. There was then, however, no immediate danger, and the Suva returned to Fiji after leaving the natives all the provisions that could be spared. The Tongan schooner Sandfly was to proceed to Niuafou as speedily a* possible with a further supply, and the Suva will follow her on her second trip to the islands. Captain Dodd has forwarded to Mr Pond, chemist, of Auckland, a quantity of the Niuafou dust. It is very similar to that obtained from Tarawera after the eruption, except that it is heavier and of a darker color than the latter.