While there is still little clarity on the extent of damage caused, the Government of Tonga has issued a state of emergency, following the eruption of Hunga-Tonga-Hunga-Ha'apai, an underwater volcano, on January 15.

The eruption was the biggest recorded since Mount Pinatubo in the Philippines in 1991 and at least three people were killed, either by the ash cloud or resulting tsunami.

An earthquake measuring 6.2 on the Richter scale was recorded off the coast of Tonga yesterday as aid efforts continue.

An underwater communication cable was damaged in the eruption, leaving much of Tonga unable to communicate with the outside world.

"We send our deepest sympathies to the people of Tonga who have suffered great loss following the recent volcanic eruption and tsunami," Acting ANOC President Robin Mitchell, who is also the President of the Oceania National Olympic Committees, said.  

"ANOC stands in solidarity with Tonga at this difficult time.

"We will continue to reach out to the National Olympic Committee and help as we can."

ANOC secretary general Gunilla Lindberg also sympathised with Tongans.

"Our thoughts are with Tonga," Lindberg said.

"We hope that the international community will continue to provide Tonga with the humanitarian aid it needs to support its people and the country’s recovery from this tragic event."

Officials in Tonga are working hard to restore the communication services impacted by the natural disaster, while domestic and international humanitarian organisations are distributing essentials such as food and water.

The Tonga Sports Association and National Olympic Committee sent six athletes to the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, competing in taekwondo, swimming, athletics and weightlifting.