Philippines: Evacuations in Albay province as volcano emits ash Jan. 13

Event

Activity of Mayon volcano on Saturday, January 13, has led local authorities to evacuate all villages within a 5 km (3 mi) radius of the volcano. Mayon volcano is located in Albay province (Bicol region), on the island of Luzon. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology issued a level 1 alert (on a scale from 0 to 5), stating that abnormal activity was detected, but no eruption was imminent.

According to local sources the volcano began to spew ash into the air on Saturday; a plume of volcanic ash has since reached a height of approximately 3 km (1.8 mi).

Advice

Individuals present in or intending to travel to the affected area are advised to monitor the situation and follow any instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders). In case of an eruption, it is advisable to wear respiratory masks and to wear covering clothing to protect skin from abrasive ash.​