State seismologists reported a sharp increase in volcanic earthquakes and toxic gas emissions on Saturday, indicating that Mayon Volcano has intensified its activity over the past 24 hours.
Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) monitors detected 254 volcanic earthquakes, dwarfing previous day’s count of 71.
Latest data includes 36 volcanic tremors lasting up to 15 minutes, 287 rockfall events, and two pyroclastic density current signals.
Lava effusion continues carving paths through the Albay landscape, reaching 3.8 kilometers into Basud gully, 3.2 kilometers into Bonga gully, and 1.3 kilometers into Mi-isi gully.
Observers noted episodic minor strombolian activity alongside short-lived lava fountaining.
Phivolcs has kept Mayon Volcano under Alert Lever 3. Consequently, the agency is strictly enforcing a total ban on entering the six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone to ensure everyone’s safety.
State seismologists warned nearby communities of potential rockfalls, ballistic fragments, lava flows, PDCs, moderate-sized explosions, and lahars.
Written by Czairine Quimoyog, Insight PH
Czairine Quimoyog, Insight PH is a dedicated campus journalist and contributor. Their insightful writing sparks meaningful conversations and keeps the community informed.
