Archive · 31 May 2025
Maka Lahi: A Tsunami's Monumental Legacy in Tonga
Imagine a giant rock, way too big to be moved by people, sitting far away from the ocean.
That's Maka Lahi, a massive coral boulder in Tonga.
Scientists think a huge tsunami, like a giant wall of water, brought it there.
This wasn't just any wave; it was caused by something big underwater, maybe an earthquake or volcano.
This wave, which happened around 600 years ago, was so strong it carried the giant rock inland.
People at the time probably had a tough time.
Even today, stories about the event are still told, passed down through generations.
It's a reminder of how powerful nature can be.
Maka Lahi, a 1,200-ton coral boulder on Tongatapu, was moved inland by a megatsunami.
The boulder is approximately 15 meters long, 9 meters high, and located hundreds of meters inland.
Geologists believe the tsunami was caused by an underwater landslide or volcanic eruption.
Radiocarbon dating indicates the tsunami occurred in the 15th century, about 600 years ago.
Local legends may reflect memories of the event, with tales of divine beings and stone-throwing gods.
- Who
- The event impacted coastal societies on Tongatapu.
- What
- A 1,200-ton coral boulder, Maka Lahi, was transported inland by a megatsunami.
- When
- Approximately the 15th century, around 600 years ago.
- Where
- Inland on Tongatapu, Tonga.
- Why
- The boulder was moved by a massive tsunami caused by an underwater event, such as an underwater landslide or volcanic eruption.
- Name
- Maka Lahi
- Type
- Coral boulder
- Weight
- 1,200 tons
- Dimensions
- 15 meters long, 9 meters high
- Location
- Hundreds of meters inland
- Tsunami Date
- 15th century