Ashfall occurred in towns due to ashing from Mayon

By Rhaydz B. Barcia

A mild ashfall occurred in Guinobatan and Camalig municipalities at 11:00 am on Monday due to ashing from Mayon Volcano, as reported by Dr. Paul Alanis, Phivolcs resident volcanologist in Bicol.

Dr. Alanis stated that this ashing is part of the ongoing activity at alert level 3, although Mayon’s current state is not visible due to adverse weather conditions in Albay following the shearline effect.

Mayon Volcano has been in a state of eruption since June 8, with Phivolcs maintaining alert level 3. Dr. Alanis revealed that approximately 48 to 49 million cubic meters of volcanic materials have been ejected.

Areas significantly affected by the volcanic materials include Guinobatan, Camalig, Daraga, and Legazpi City, located to the south of the volcano according to prevailing winds.

Continuous observations show crater glow and pyroclastic density current events, with slow lava flows reported at various gullies. Ground deformation parameters suggest overall inflation relative to baseline levels.

Maintaining vigilance, Phivolcs emphasizes the importance of a 6-km radius Permanent Danger Zone evacuation due to the potential for hazardous eruptions, including PDCs, lava flows, and rockfalls.

The Albay Public Safety Emergency Management Office (APSEMO) is actively monitoring areas affected by the shear line or rains in Albay. Eugene Escobar from APSEMO urges disaster officials and the public to remain vigilant, closely monitoring possible remobilization of lahar flow due to rainfall associated with the shear line impact. Local government units have been notified to act promptly based on PAGASA’s notifications.