By: Aliahcorr Balanon
Photo courtesy of DOST-PHIVOLCS.
Mayon Volcano stays at Alert Level 3 as the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) said due to continuous pyroclastic density currents (PDCs) and continuous gas emissions.
On its Sunday, Jan. 25 update, the PHIVOLCS reported that the Mayon Volcano continued its effusive eruption for the 18th consecutive day.
PHIVOLCS said after a 24-hour observation bulletin, the volcano logged 28 pyroclastic density currents and 261 rockfall events, while no volcanic earthquakes were detected.
Meanwhile, sulfur dioxide emissions surged to 6,735 tons on Jan. 23, Friday, a step rise from 3,372 tons on Jan. 22, Thursday.
PHIVOLCS added that the summit crater continued to show lava dome extrusion and lava flow effusion, indicating a sustained magma supply beneath the volcano.
The bulletin also reported that the crater glow was moderately visible to the naked eye and that the volcano’s edifice remains inflated, indicating ongoing magma build up.
As the volcano remained under Alert Level 3, entry into the 6-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone and unauthorized access to the Extended Danger Zone were prohibited, and advised aircraft to avoid flying near the area.
“Alert Level 3 prevails over Mayon, and entry into the 6-km Permanent Danger Zone must be prohibited,” PHIVOLCS said.
Intensified unrest could also trigger rockfalls, landslides, ballistic fragments, lava flows, and fountaining, pyroclastic density currents, explosions and lahars during heavy rain.
In a recent report, ashfall from Mayon has spread to nearby villages in Legazpi City.
Authorities advised residents to stay indoors, wear masks, and protect their eyes amid worsening air quality. While reminding the commuters and motorists to drive cautiously because of limited visibility.