Mayon Volcano in Albay, Philippines, has been placed under Alert Lev el 3 by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) due to an increased tendency towards a hazardous eruption. The volcano is exhibiting magmatic eruption of a summit lava dome, with a higher likelihood of lava flows, pyroclastic density currents, and potential explosive activity within weeks or even days, according to Phivolcs.
This escalation comes after Mayon was initially placed under Alert Level 2 earlier this week due to mounting unrest. Phivolcs has now recommended evacuating residents within the six-kilometer permanent danger zone around the volcano. Vigilance against hazards such as pyroclastic density currents, lahars, and sediment-laden stream flows is also advised.
Pilots have been cautioned to avoid flying near the summit due to the potential hazards posed by ash in the event of a sudden eruption. Ashfall events are expected to predominantly affect the south side of the volcano.
Phivolcs reported an increasing number and volume of rockfall events and volcanic earthquakes since Mayon was placed under Alert Level 2. From Monday to Thursday, a total of 267 rockfall events and two volcanic earthquakes were recorded, compared to only 54 rockfall events from June 1 to 4.
Three pyroclastic density current events occurred on Thursday, lasting four to five minutes each, in the Bonga and Basud gullies near the summit crater.
Mayon Volcano’s last steam-driven eruption occurred in January 2018. The current volcanic activity suggests the possibility of another eruption in the coming days or weeks, prompting the need for heightened precautions and evacuation measures.
Courtesy: Arren Christian Ventura
Residents in the towns of Bacacay, Camalig, Daraga, Guinobatan, Malilipot, and Santo Domingo, as well as the cities of Legazpi, Ligao, and Tabaco, are particularly advised to remain vigilant and comply with evacuation orders.
The emission of sulfur dioxide, a toxic gas, has been measured at an average of 332 tons per day, lower than previous days. However, levels can fluctuate, and precautions against respiratory and other health risks associated with volcanic activity remain important.
Authorities and residents are closely monitoring the situation, with Phivolcs providing regular updates on the volcano’s status and advising on necessary safety measures.
