Is the underwater volcano near Tonga as dangerous as Surtsey?

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    Underwater Volcano
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the recent eruption of an underwater volcano near Tonga and its potential dangers, drawing comparisons to the Surtsey volcano in Iceland. Participants explore the implications of volcanic activity and related seismic events.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express awe at witnessing an underwater volcano erupting, highlighting its impressive nature.
  • One participant notes a significant earthquake (7.9 magnitude) occurring in the same region, suggesting a possible connection to volcanic activity.
  • Another participant raises concerns about the safety of photographers near the eruption site, referencing the historical context of Surtsey.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally express fascination with the volcanic activity, but there is no consensus on the level of danger it poses compared to Surtsey or the implications of the associated earthquake.

Contextual Notes

Participants do not delve into specific scientific details or assessments of risk, leaving the discussion open-ended regarding the potential dangers and comparisons to Surtsey.

Ivan Seeking
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Video at the link.

Scientists are on their way to the site of a large undersea volcano that has been erupting for days near Tonga, sending columns of smoke and ash thousands of feet into the sky above the Pacific Ocean.

The spectacular plumes are erupting from the ocean about six or seven miles (10 - 12 km) off the coast of the main island of Tongatapu, near the low-lying twin volcanic islands of Hunga Tonga and Hunga Ha'apai...
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/environment/article5936330.ece
 
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Wow that's impressive. Never imagined I would see an underwater volcano erupting in my lifetime.
 
They also had a 7.9 Magnitude earthquake in that area.

http://earthquake.usgs.gov/eqcenter/recenteqsww/Quakes/us2009ejbr.php"
 
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That was utterly majestic. Thanks for the heads up. :!)
 
I wonder what danger the photographers might have been in?

Remember Surtsey, south of Iceland? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surtsey"
 
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