The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) continues to expand its efforts to improve climate resilience across the Pacific Islands, with a specific focus on lifting Tonga’s disaster preparedness through advanced early warning systems.
In partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the United States Geological Survey (USGS), USAID has introduced innovative, low-cost tools in Tonga.
One such tool is the “Chatty Beetle,” a rugged device capable of sending two-way text alerts via satellite, designed for use in remote communities where electricity and communication lines often fail during disasters.
After the 2021 Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai eruption, these devices proved essential for alerting communities in real time, giving them crucial lead time to respond.
USAID and USGS have also supplied Tonga with enhanced earthquake monitoring technology and volcano alert systems, which can issue faster warnings for natural hazards.
These improvements are part of the U.S. government’s broader climate initiative, known as PREPARE, aimed at assisting vulnerable countries in adapting to climate challenges.
The program further leverages indigenous knowledge and local networks to boost resilience. Traditional insights are combined with meteorological data to empower communities with reliable, early warning methods tailored to Tonga’s unique needs.
By encouraging regional cooperation and introducing new technologies, USAID is helping Tonga and other Pacific nations safeguard their populations amid rising climate risks.