08 Jun 2023 | 06:57 AM UTC
Philippines: Increased volcanic activity ongoing at Mayon Volcano in Albay Province as of June 8 /update 1
Increased volcanic activity ongoing at Mayon Volcano in Albay Province, Philippines, as of June 8. Authorities raise alert level.
Event
Authorities from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) have reported increased volcanic activity at the Mayon Volcano in Albay Province, Bicol Region, approximately 13 km (8 miles) northwest of Legazpi City, as of June 8. PHIVOLCS raised the volcano alert level at Mayon from Level 2 to Level 3 (the middle level on a five-tier scale) June 8 after raising it from Level 1 to Level 2 June 5. The volcano is erupting, with increased chances of lava flows and hazardous pyroclastic flows affecting the upper to middle slopes of the volcano and of potential explosive activity over the coming days and weeks.
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. Authorities in Albay Province intend to start enforcing evacuations in critical areas and have set up 115 evacuation centers across the province in preparation for any potential major eruptions. Authorities have also advised residents to be vigilant against pyroclastic flows, lahars, and sediment-laden stream flows along channels draining the edifice. Aircraft are also advised to avoid flying close to the summit as ash may be hazardous to aircraft. Ash fall events are most likely to occur on the south side of the volcano.
PHIVOLCS has reported 267 rockfall events and two volcanic earthquakes due to the repeated collapse of the volcano's summit lava dome June 5-8 and 54 rockfall events June 1-4. 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. Fine particulate matter ejected from the volcano could pose a hazard to flights in the surrounding airspace; authorities might temporarily close airport facilities at Bicol International Airport (LGP) and other surrounding airports if significant ashfall accumulations occur. 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), around 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.
