LOOK: Mayon Volcano continues to shed 'uson,' lava flows, rockfalls on Tuesday night

Mayon Volcano in the Philippines continues to exhibit heightened activity, with ongoing effusive eruption entering its 28th consecutive day as of Tuesday. State volcanologists are closely monitoring the situation as the volcano sheds incandescent pyroclastic density currents and rockfalls.

Volcanic Activity Intensifies

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) reported that incandescent pyroclastic density currents, locally known as “uson,” and rockfalls continue to occur within two kilometers of Mayon’s summit crater. These events are impacting the Miisi (south), Bonga (southeast), and Basud (east) Gullies, and are accompanied by slow-moving lava flows.

Alert Level and Danger Zone

PHIVOLCS maintains Alert Level 3 for Mayon Volcano, indicating a relatively high level of unrest. As a precaution, entry into the 6-km Permanent Danger Zone remains strictly prohibited.

Did You Know? PHIVOLCS shared time-lapse videos on Tuesday showing the glowing pyroclastic density currents and lava flows descending the volcano’s slopes.

Observations as of Tuesday also include a visible crater glow, continued lava flow, plumes emanating from the volcano, and evidence of ground deformation.

Monitoring Data

Data collected by PHIVOLCS on Tuesday morning revealed nine volcanic earthquakes, 304 rockfall events, and 68 pyroclastic density currents originating from Mayon Volcano. These measurements provide crucial insights into the ongoing volcanic processes.

Expert Insight: The continued presence of pyroclastic density currents and lava flows indicates that Mayon Volcano remains in a dynamic state. Maintaining a high level of vigilance and adhering to the established danger zone restrictions are critical for public safety.

Further time-lapse videos documenting the incandescent lava flows, PDCs, and rockfalls were also uploaded by state volcanologists earlier on Tuesday.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are pyroclastic density currents?

Pyroclastic density currents, or PDCs, are fast-moving currents of hot gas and volcanic matter that flow along the ground away from a volcano. They are described as “uson” by local volcanologists.

What does Alert Level 3 mean?

Alert Level 3 signifies that Mayon Volcano is exhibiting relatively high unrest, and that a hazardous eruption is possible within days or weeks.

How far from the volcano is the danger zone?

The Permanent Danger Zone around Mayon Volcano extends six kilometers from the summit crater, and entry into this area is prohibited.

What factors might influence the future behavior of Mayon Volcano, and how could these developments impact surrounding communities?

LOOK: Mayon Volcano continues to shed ‘uson,’ lava flows, rockfalls on Tuesday night