The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) has recently issued three reports as they are now closely monitoring the volcanic activity of three of the Philippines’ active volcanoes: Mayon, Taal, and Kanlaon.
Reports state that during the 24-hour observation period following the initial 6.3 magnitude that hit Luzon, Mayon experienced one volcanic earthquake and is now at alert level 2. “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,” as per the report from Philvolcs.
The bureau adds that entry within the six kilometer-radius Permanent Danger Zone or PDZ and a precautionary seven kilometer-radius Extended Danger Zone or EDZ must be strictly prohibited. This covers the areas of Anoling, Camalig to Sta. Misericordia, Sto. Domingo.
“People residing close to these danger areas are also advised to observe precautions associated with rockfalls, PDCs and ashfall. Active stream/river channels and those identified as perennially lahar-prone areas on all sectors of the volcano should also be avoided especially during extreme weather conditions when there is heavy and prolonged rainfall. 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,” adds the report.
Taal and Kanlaon being monitored
Phivolcs also reported around 9 volcanic earthquakes at Taal Volcano and reported moderate emission of steam-laden plumes that rose 200m at Kanlaon Volcano, both of which are now at alert level 1.
Philvolcs continues to monitor the increased activity of the shifting of tectonic plates that’s currently causing the earthquakes at the Philippines following more than 400 aftershocks, a 6.1 magnitude earthquake struck Visayas, and recently, two moderate earthquakes that hit Mindanao’s Sarrangani and Davao Oriental provinces.
