Extra caution urged as Mayon sulfur emissions surge

LEGAZPI CITY --- Residents in communities around Mayon Volcano, particularly those in areas vulnerable to volcanic hazards, are being urged to exercise extra caution as a sharp increase in sulfur dioxide emissions raises the possibility of renewed eruptive activity.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said Mayon released 7,115 tons of sulfur dioxide on Aug. 31, more than twice the volcano’s average daily emission since it was placed under Alert Level 2 on Aug. 5.

The latest emission reading was the second-highest recorded since volcanic gas concentrations began declining on July 16, according to Phivolcs’ bulletin issued Tuesday, Sept. 1.

Since the imposition of Alert Level 2, which indicates moderate unrest, Mayon has been releasing an average of 3,844 tons of sulfur dioxide daily.

Phivolcs said the spike in emissions was accompanied by a slight increase in low-frequency volcanic earthquakes, with 12 recorded as of midnight Tuesday. The agency attributed these earthquakes to volcanic degassing, although the real-time seismic energy release remained at background levels.

Electronic tilt monitoring also detected short-term swelling or pressurization on Mayon’s northern and eastern flanks, indicating changes in the volcano’s internal activity.

The combination of these observations prompted Phivolcs to caution that the elevated sulfur dioxide emissions could signal a shift toward renewed eruptive activity at the summit crater.

For residents of Albay communities surrounding Mayon, the developments underscore the importance of remaining alert, closely monitoring official advisories and being prepared for possible changes in the volcano’s alert status.

Phivolcs said Mayon remains under Alert Level 2, but warned local governments and residents to prepare for a possible escalation to Alert Level 3, particularly in communities exposed to pyroclastic density currents or uson.

A renewed eruption could produce pyroclastic density currents, rockfalls, ballistic fragments and widespread ashfall, the agency said.

Phivolcs also reiterated that entry into Mayon’s six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone is strictly prohibited, given the continuing possibility of sudden volcanic hazards.

Residents living along channels and waterways draining the volcano were likewise reminded to remain vigilant, particularly during prolonged heavy rains. Lahars and sediment-laden stream flows may occur during periods of intense rainfall or in the event of a simultaneous explosive eruption.

Meanwhile, pilots were advised to avoid flying close to Mayon’s summit because a sudden eruption could send ash and ballistic fragments into the air, posing a serious danger to aircraft.

With the volcano continuing to show signs of unrest, Phivolcs’ latest observations serve as a reminder for communities around Mayon to avoid complacency, stay informed and be ready to act should conditions deteriorate.