Phivolcs notes increased seismic activity at Mt. Bulusan

State volcanologists on Sunday reminded the public against venturing into the 4-km permanent danger zone of Bulusan Volcano in Sorsogon province after noting increased activity there.

In an advisory, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology noted an "above background level of seismic activity" in past days.

"During the 24-hour observation period, the seismic network detected 13 volcanic earthquakes. Ground deformation data from continuous GPS and precise leveling survey also indicate that the volcano is slightly inflated," it said.

Phivolcs said, "Although Alert Level 0 status currently prevails over Bulusan Volcano, the local government units and the public are reminded that entry to the 4-kilometer radius Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) is strictly prohibited due to the possibility of sudden and hazardous steam-driven or phreatic eruptions," it said.

It also urged civil aviation authorities to advise pilots to avoid flying close to the volcano’s summit as materials ejected from any sudden eruption can be hazardous to aircraft.

Meanwhile it urged people living within valleys and along river/stream channels to be vigilant against sediment-laden stream flows and lahars in case of heavy and prolonged rainfall. — Joel Locsin /LBG, GMA News