By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — State volcanologists continue to monitor heightened activity at Mayon Volcano after dozens of volcanic events were recorded over the past 24 hours.
According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, a total of 39 volcanic earthquakes and several volcanic tremors lasting from three to 15 minutes were detected around the volcano.
PHIVOLCS also observed 24 rockfall events and one pyroclastic density current, indicating ongoing movement of volcanic materials along Mayon’s slopes.
Sulfur dioxide emissions reached 2,615 tons per day, while moderate plumes of steam rose as high as 500 meters above the crater before drifting toward the western side of the volcano.
Volcanologists likewise noted slight swelling or inflation on the northwestern sector of the volcano, a sign of possible magma movement beneath the edifice.
Despite the continued volcanic activity, Alert Level 3 remains in effect over Mayon, which means the volcano is still in a relatively high level of unrest and a hazardous eruption remains possible.
Authorities reiterated that entry into the six-kilometer permanent danger zone and the one-kilometer extended danger zone remains strictly prohibited. PHIVOLCS also warned pilots to avoid flying near the volcano’s summit due to the risk of sudden ash emissions and explosive activity.
ia/xf
