Overview
An Underwater Volcano Just Created A New Island
Several new islands have emerged in the last 50 years, primarily due to underwater volcanic activity in the Pacific "Ring of Fire," with notable examples including Niijima (Japan, 2013), Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai (Tonga, 2015), and various ephemeral islets off Japan and Tonga. While many are temporary and erode quickly, others persist for years.
NASA SVS (.gov)
NASA SVS (.gov)
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Key New Islands & Volcanic Activity (1974–2024)
Nishinoshima (Japan, 2013/2014): An underwater eruption created a new island that later merged with an existing one, growing significantly over a decade-long eruption.
Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha'apai (Tonga, 2015): Formed by a "Surtseyan" eruption, this island was initially expected to last only a few months but stabilized, connecting two older islands before a massive 2022 eruption.
Fukutoku-Okanoba (Japan, 2021): An August 2021 eruption created a new volcanic island south of Japan, which was largely submerged by erosion within months.
Kavachi (Solomon Islands, 2000s/2014): Known as "Sharkcano," this active submarine volcano frequently creates temporary islands.
New Late'iki (Tonga, 1995/2020): Volcanic activity created new landmasses in the Tonga archipelago, with Nature studying its rapid evolution.
Norderoogsand (Germany, 2003): A rare non-volcanic example, this is a 34-acre sand island that appeared in the North Sea.
Treehugger
Treehugger
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