17 Oct 2022 | 06:27 AM UTC
Philippines: Increased volcanic activity ongoing at Mayon Volcano in Albay Province as of Oct. 17 /update 1
Increased volcanic activity ongoing at Mayon Volcano in Albay Province, Philippines, as of Oct. 17. Evacuations, disruptions possible.
Event
Authorities continue to report increased volcanic activity at the Mayon Volcano in Albay Province, Bicol Region, approximately 13 km (8 miles) northwest of Legazpi City as of Oct. 17. Officials are maintaining the volcano alert level at Level 2 - the second-highest level on a five-tier scale. The public is advised to refrain from entering the 6 km (3.7 miles) radius Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) around the volcano due to the risk of sudden explosions, rock falls, and landslides.
Eruptions from Mayon could cause low-level seismic activity, ash clouds, and landslides in the surrounding area. Motorists should drive with extreme caution as ash can result in poor visibility and, when wet, make roads slippery. Civil aviation authorities have advised against flying close to the volcano’s summit due to the dangers of ash from any sudden phreatic eruption. People, especially those with underlying pulmonary conditions such as asthma, COPD, or lung cancers, may experience difficulty breathing and could suffer from lower tolerance to physical exertion than healthier individuals. Therefore, such individuals should take additional precautions to avoid excessive ash exposure.
Transport
Plan for possible transport disruptions in the surrounding area, especially if a significant eruptive event occurs. Road conditions could quickly deteriorate during periods of significant ashfall; reduced visibility is also possible. Officials might close roads near the volcano depending on the presence of hazardous volcanic material. Fine particulate matter ejected from the volcano could pose a hazard to flights in the surrounding airspace. Authorities could quickly halt or divert flights at Bicol International Airport (LGP), about 15 km (9 miles) south of Mayon.
Advice
Confirm flights if a large eruption occurs. Heed evacuation orders and the advice of local authorities. Prepare for localized traffic disruptions if operating near the volcano over the coming days. Do not check out of accommodation until onward travel is confirmed. Seek updated information on road conditions before driving; due to reduced visibility, drive cautiously in areas affected by ash. Carry facemasks and observe other precautions to avoid ash inhalation if operating in the affected area. Ash may cause respiratory irritation; individuals who suffer from pre-existing respiratory problems should carry adequate medication. Drink only bottled water as sulfur in the volcanic ash may contaminate local drinking water.
