Mayon Volcano in Albay, Philippines has been experiencing an ongoing effusive eruption for the 18th consecutive day as of Saturday, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).
Eruption Details
On Saturday, the volcano generated incandescent lava flows, pyroclastic density currents (PDCs) – also known as “uson” – and rockfalls. These flows descended through the Mi-Isi Gully (south), Bonga Gully (southeast), and Basud Gully (east). Lava traveled from the summit crater as far as 1.3 to 3.2 kilometers down these gullies.
PHIVOLCS reported observing one volcanic earthquake, one ongoing tremor, 253 rockfall events, and 44 PDCs on Saturday. A visible crater glow was also noted. Moderate plumes rose up to 600 meters above the crater, drifting southwest and northeast.
Current Alert Level and Hazards
PHIVOLCS maintains “Alert Level 3” for Mayon Volcano. This designation means that an eruption is occurring, and entry into the 6-km Permanent Danger Zone is strictly prohibited. Entry into the Extended Danger Zone is also discouraged without vigilance.
The agency has identified several potential hazards associated with Mayon Volcano, including rockfalls, landslides, and avalanches. Other risks include ballistic fragments, lava flows, lava fountaining, PDCs, moderate-sized explosions, and the possibility of lahars during periods of heavy and prolonged rainfall.
PHIVOLCS also warned that flying aircraft near the volcano is hazardous.
What Could Happen Next
The eruption could continue at its current intensity, with lava flows and PDCs remaining confined to the identified gullies. It is also possible that the eruption could escalate, leading to more intense activity and a wider dispersal of volcanic hazards. Conversely, the eruption could gradually decline, though this is not currently indicated by available data. Further volcanic earthquakes or a significant increase in sulfur dioxide emissions could signal a change in the volcano’s behavior.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a pyroclastic density current?
A pyroclastic density current (PDC), or “uson,” is a fast-moving current of hot gas and volcanic matter that flows along the ground away from a volcano, according to PHIVOLCS.
What does Alert Level 3 mean?
“Alert Level 3” signifies that Mayon Volcano is exhibiting magmatic unrest, and an eruption is in progress. Entry into the 6-km Permanent Danger Zone is prohibited.
What types of hazards does Mayon Volcano pose?
Mayon Volcano poses hazards such as rockfalls, landslides, avalanches, ballistic fragments, lava flows, lava fountaining, PDCs, moderate-sized explosions, and lahars during heavy and prolonged rainfall.
What factors might influence the future course of this eruption?
