Communication is still severely limited around the island nation of Tonga after Saturday's volcanic eruption.

But new images show the devastation that followed the advance of the tidal waves in the region.

All houses and residences on several of the islands have been completely leveled to the ground and elsewhere rescue operations have been initiated to evacuate victims, reports Reuters.

According to official figures, three people have so far been confirmed dead.

But the death toll is expected to rise further in the coming days.

The volcanic eruption caused a tsunami in the area with waves of up to 15 meters.

The airport is kept closed and international relief efforts have been made.

See photos from the disaster-stricken area in the clip above.