The Tongan government says three people including a British woman have been confirmed dead, and many others have been injured due to the massive offshore volcanic eruption.

It says the Hunga-Tonga-Hunga-Ha'apai eruption generated tsunami that rose up to 15 meters.

The government on Tuesday released its first statement on the disaster that hit the Pacific island nation on Saturday.

It says the tsunami inflicted serious damage to the west coasts of many islands, including Tongatapu, where the capital Nuku'alofa is.
On one island, all the houses were destroyed, and only two dwellings remain standing on another island.

It says water supplies have been seriously affected by the volcanic ash, and efforts are continuing to ensure a supply of safe drinking water.

The government says, as of Tuesday, communications can be made through satellite phones and high-frequency radio in some limited areas, but the Internet has been down. It says efforts are ongoing to restore full communication capabilities.

On transportation, the statement says wharves have been damaged, and ash is being cleared from airports.

The Tongan government is assessing the damage, while keeping a close watch for any volcanic activity.