January 22, 2018

PHILVOLCS raises Mayon to Alert Level 4

Class suspensions and precautionary measures in the province of Albay are now in effect as an eruption from Mayon Volcano looms in the coming days.

In an advisory issued today at 1 pm, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHILVOLCS) just raised Alert Level 4 over Mt. Mayon after it spewed a 10-kilometer-high ash column.

https://www.facebook.com/PHIVOLCS/photos/a.285127764929462.59684.283303355111903/1427919740650253/?type=3&theater

“Because of this, the Danger Zone is extended to an eight-kilometer radius from the summit vent. The public is strongly advised to be vigilant and desist from entering this danger zone,” the advisory said.

https://www.facebook.com/alfrancis.bichara/posts/1799058503460807

On his Facebook page, Albay Governor Al Francis Bichara has suspended classes in all levels in the province and has also advised citizens of Albay to wear facemasks and stay indoors.

In a report posted on CNN Philippines, PHILVOLCS director Renato Solidum warned of two possible scenarios: continuous lava eruptions, or a more dangerous pyroclastic flow. He also said it could be a smaller version of the 2001 eruption.

This new development comes after PHILVOCS officials gave the go-signal for residents of Legazpi City to return to their homes, according to a report posted on CNN Philippines last January 18.

Solidum, for his part, suggests that no one should be allowed to live within Mayon’s six-kilometer permanent danger zone.

Also read: Expats’ Guide to PHIVOLCS Volcano Alert Levels

Source: CNN Philippines, Inquirer.net, GMA News Online, Rappler, PHILVOLCS on Facebook
Image source: Gov. Al Francis C. Bichara on Facebook