volcanoes

Hawaii's Kilauea began erupting inside its summit crater Thursday after scientists detected a glow in webcam images inside the Halemaumau crater.

Mauna Loa, the world's largest volcano, began spewing molten rock Nov. 27 after being quiet for 38 years. Lava-viewers enjoyed the rare marvel of being able to see Kilauea erupting at the same time.

Monsoon rains eroded and finally collapsed the lava dome atop 3,676-meter (12,060-foot) Mount Semeru, causing the eruption, according to National Disaster Management Agency spokesperson Abdul Muhari.

The mountain, which is taller than Mount Everest measured from seafloor to summit, erupted Sunday. Its lava appears to be contained, but scientists say the volcano has a history of rapidly changing.

There were no immediate reports of damage or injuries in nearby towns but residents were advised to evacuate.

The images show populated areas in the archipelago with heavily damaged or destroyed buildings and homes and at least one island covered with ash.

It's a pandemic predicament. With only 1 recorded case of COVID-19 in their island nation, Tongans are desperate for help after the volcanic eruption — but eager to keep the virus out.

It's just one of the ways the world is rallying to help the people of the remote Pacific island nation rebuild.

Lisala Folau told a local broadcaster about his swimming journey, which lasted more than a day and took him to three islands. Social media users hearing his story are calling him "real-life Aquaman."

The eruption severed Tonga's single fiber-optic cable, rendering the Pacific archipelago offline and unable to communicate with the rest of the world. Flights brought bottled water and other supplies.