Mayon Volcano logged more rockfalls, sulfur dioxide emission in past 24 hours

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) on Wednesday reported an increase in rockfall incidents and sulfur dioxide emission as Mayon Volcano continued to show intensified unrest.

Based on its latest 24-hour observation bulletin, PHIVOLCS recorded sulfur dioxide emission of 2,228 tonnes on Tuesday, which is higher than the 1,124 tonnes recorded in the previous report.

Rockfall events also increased to 315 from 286.

A weak plume emission reached 500 meters and drifted west-northwest. This is higher compared to the 300 meters of plume in the past report.

Lava flows continued along the Basud (3.8 kilometers), Bonga (3.2 km), and Mi-isi (1.8 km) gullies, accompanied by episodic minor strombolian activity, according to PHIVOLCS.

PHIVOLCS reported 28 volcanic earthquakes, including 13 volcanic tremors lasting 10 to 87 minutes.

Three pyroclastic density current (PDC) signals or uson were observed.

A crater glow remained visible to the naked eye.

Also, a short-term deflation of the volcanic edifice with shorter-term inflation on the northeastern flank was observed.

Under Alert Level 3, Mayon Volcano shows an intensified unrest or magmatic unrest.

Authorities strictly prohibit entry into the six-kilometer permanent danger zone (PDZ) and warn against unnecessary activity in the extended danger zone (EDZ).

Flying any aircraft close to the volcano is also prohibited due to potential ash and ballistic hazards.

Mayon could generate rockfalls or landslides or avalanches; ballistic fragments; lava flows and lava fountaining; pyroclastic density currents; moderate-sized explosions; and lahars during heavy and prolonged rainfall. —AOL, GMA News