The Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA) reported on Saturday that pyroclastic flows from Mayon Volcano have impacted over 1,000 hectares of crops. Satellite data indicates that the damage includes 1,039 hectares of rice and 191 hectares of other crops.
PhilSA noted that the combined affected area is roughly the size of Mandaluyong City. The agency reported that approximately 158 kilometers of roads have been affected by ashfall.
Damage Assessment and Mapping
On May 9, 2026, PhilSA produced a crop exposure map identifying ash-affected “Physical Rice Areas” and “Other Crop Areas.” This mapping follows a reported pyroclastic density current that occurred along the Mi-isi gully of Mayon Volcano on May 2.
The agency cautioned that satellite imagery remains limited by cloud cover, meaning areas obscured during image capture may or may not contain ash deposits. While the extent of the deposits is subject to ground validation, PhilSA stated the data is consistent with reports from the ground and atmospheric trajectory modeling.
Current Volcanic Status
As of May 9, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) has maintained Mayon Volcano under Alert Level 3. This designation is due to high-level unrest and the continued potential for a hazardous eruption.
Phivolcs has recorded a significant amount of activity, including 318 rockfall events and 27 volcanic earthquakes. The agency also noted three volcanic tremors, two pyroclastic density current signals, lava flow, and a few strombolian eruptions.
Future Outlook
PhilSA has stated it will continue to monitor satellite data as the situation develops. Because the volcano remains under Alert Level 3, there may be further hazardous eruptions.
Authorities have urged the public to follow all advisories from local and national agencies as the unrest continues. Future impacts on infrastructure and agriculture could fluctuate depending on the volcano’s activity levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much agricultural land was affected by the eruption?
According to PhilSA, 1,039 hectares of rice and 191 hectares of other crops were affected, totaling over 1,000 hectares.
What is the current alert level for Mayon Volcano?
As of May 9, the volcano is under Alert Level 3 due to high-level unrest and the potential for a hazardous eruption.
What infrastructure was impacted by the ashfall?
The Philippine Space Agency reported that some 158 kilometers of roads were affected.
How should local communities best balance satellite warnings with ground-level observations during volcanic unrest?
