By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — Mayon Volcano continued its prolonged eruptive activity on Saturday, marking its 173rd consecutive day of lava effusion, as the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) kept the volcano under Alert Level 3 due to persistent volcanic unrest.
Phivolcs reported that lava continued to flow from Mayon’s summit crater between 9:41 p.m. and 11:19 p.m. on Friday, followed by another episode from 2:39 a.m. to 2:44 a.m. on Saturday.
The state volcanology agency said the ongoing effusive eruption continues to generate incandescent lava flows, pyroclastic density currents (PDCs) or “uson,” and frequent rockfall events along the volcano’s slopes.
In its latest 24-hour monitoring report, Phivolcs recorded 34 volcanic earthquakes, 13 volcanic tremors lasting between five and 10 minutes, and 222 rockfall events, all indicating sustained movement of magma beneath the volcano.
The volcano’s summit crater continued to emit a visible glow, while sulfur dioxide emissions reached 2,288 metric tons, reflecting continued degassing from the active volcanic system.
A plume of steam and volcanic gases rose approximately 1,000 meters above the crater before drifting toward the northeast.
Phivolcs said Alert Level 3 remains appropriate, signifying that Mayon is in a relatively high state of unrest with the possibility of hazardous eruptions.
The agency reiterated that entry into the six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) remains strictly prohibited due to the continuing threats posed by lava flows, pyroclastic density currents, ballistic projectiles, rockfalls, and sudden explosive activity.
Authorities also advised pilots to avoid flying close to the volcano because volcanic ash and ballistic fragments could pose risks to aircraft.
Communities living near river channels and low-lying areas surrounding the volcano were likewise reminded to remain alert for possible lahar flows, especially during periods of heavy rainfall, as loose volcanic materials can be rapidly carried downstream.
Phivolcs said it will continue to closely monitor Mayon’s activity and urged residents and local government units to strictly observe all safety advisories while the volcano remains under heightened alert.
ia/xf
