A minor strombolian activity was observed at the summit crater of Mayon Volcano early Monday, following the moderately explosive eruption on Oct. 30, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).
In an interview on DZRH’s Damdaming Bayan, PHIVOLCS Director Dr. Teresito Bacolcol said the activity occurred at around 1:15 a.m. and lasted between 41 and 52 seconds.
Bacolcol said Mayon remains under Alert Level 3 due to the increased possibility of a hazardous eruption, noting that magma is currently positioned close to the volcano’s crater.
PHIVOLCS reiterated its warning against entering the six-kilometer PDZ due to potential hazards associated with the volcano’s ongoing activity.
“The possibility that this will escalate further is always there, kaya ‘yung paalala natin sa mga kababayan: huwag pumasok sa 6-kilometer permanent danger zone,” Bacolcol said.
He clarified that minor Strombolian activity is different from sustained lava fountaining, explaining that while the two may appear similar, the former is significantly shorter in duration.
“Parang lava fountaining din 'yan [minor Strombolian activity] but maikli lamang 'yung duration,” he said.
Bacolcol also disclosed that an estimated 2,000 people remain in restricted areas, while local government units are overseeing the implementation of evacuation measures.
Authorities continue to monitor Mayon Volcano as the possibility of a more hazardous eruption remains under Alert Level 3.
Watch the full interview below:
