PHIVOLCS introduces mobile app for volcano advisories, info

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) has introduced a mobile application, VolcanoPH Info, to raise public awareness on volcano hazards for better preparedness.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) said the application provides real-time advisory with infographic updates on active volcanoes monitored by the PHIVOLCS.

PHIVOLCS chief Undersecretary Dr. Renato Solidum Jr. said, “The system will enable the user to see the updates first on the app after we have posted it to the DOST-PHIVOLCS website and have disseminated the information to the proper authorities.”

According to the DOST, VolcanoPH Info will help users understand the current volcano status along with its alert level warnings.

Users select from a list of active volcanoes on the homepage and check alert level warning status, monitoring parameters, and recommendations in Filipino language.

They can also access information on seismicity or the number of volcanic earthquakes monitored, acidity level and temperature of the main crater lake, the level of sulfur dioxide being spewed by the volcano, and the volcanic plume level or the gas and particles produced by the volcano.

The app also shows possible risks due to the volcanic activity such as ground deformation or the presence of cracks, sinking, and swelling of the ground.

Ma. Antonia V. Bornas, head of PHIVOLCS’ Volcano Monitoring and Eruption Prediction Division, said her team is planning to use different languages for the advisories.

“Like in Bicol, there are three languages used in the province,” she said.

Currently, the VolcanoPH Info app is available for Android users. Solidum said the PHIVOLCS is also planning on developing the app for IOS users. — Joviland Rita/RSJ, GMA News