Volcanic Erruption

Mayon Volcano’s seismic monitoring network did not detect any  volcanic earthquake during the past 24 hours. Moderate emission of white steam-laden plumes that drifted south-southeast was observed.  Sulfur dioxide (SO2) emission was measured at an average of 752 tonnes/day on 29 August 2018. Precise leveling data obtained on 30 August to 03 September 2018 indicate significant short-term deflation of the edifice relative to 17-24 July 2018. However, the volcano generally remains inflated relative to 2010 baselines. Electronic tilt data further show pronounced inflation of the mid-slopes beginning 25 June 2018, possibly due to aseismic magma intrusion deep beneath the edifice.

Alert Level 2 currently prevails over Mayon Volcano. This means that Mayon is at a moderate level of unrest. DOST-PHIVOLCS reminds the public that sudden explosions, lava collapses, pyroclastic density currents or PDCs and ashfall can still occur and threaten areas in the upper to middle slopes of Mayon. DOST-PHIVOLCS recommends that entry into the six kilometer-radius Permanent Danger Zone or PDZ and a precautionary seven kilometer-radius Extended Danger Zone or EDZ in the south-southwest to east-northeast sector, stretching from Anoling, Camalig to Sta. Misericordia, Sto. Domingo must be strictly prohibited. People residing close to these danger areas are also advised to observe precautions associated with rockfalls, PDCs and ashfall. Civil aviation authorities must advise pilots to avoid flying close to the volcano’s summit as airborne ash and ballistic fragments from sudden explosions and PDCs may pose hazards to aircrafts.

With the passage of Typhoon Ompong, increased vigilance of active river channels and those perennially identified as lahar prone areas in the southern and eastern flanks of the edifice and emergency measures must be undertaken by local government units. Residents along and downstream of lahar drainages, especially the Miisi, Mabinit, Matan-ag, Buyuan and Basud and Masarawag-Maninila Channels, must prepare to evacuate should intense and heavy rainfall occur. DOST-PHIVOLCS is closely monitoring Mayon Volcano’s activity and any new significant development will be immediately communicated to all stakeholders.