Philippines' Mount Mayon eruption raises fears of larger volcanic event

The Mayon Volcano in the Philippines erupted on Friday, sending a massive ash cloud soaring 3,000 meters into the sky and prompting warnings of potential larger eruptions to follow. The volcano, located in the Albay province southeast of Manila, has once again become active with what experts described as a 'moderately explosive' eruption lasting nearly six minutes.

According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), no immediate reports of casualties or damage have emerged from the areas surrounding the volcano. However, authorities have elevated the alert level, indicating that a more hazardous eruption could occur soon. They warned of a new phase of magmatic activity, which heightens the risk of lava flows and pyroclastic surges. These dangerous flows of ash, gas, and rock could affect the upper and middle slopes of the volcano in the days and weeks ahead.

The eruption occurred at approximately 11:53 a.m. local time. Phivolcs reported that winds carried the rapidly ascending ash clouds towards the west and southwest. Local municipalities, including Daraga and Guinobatan, as well as nearby areas, have been alerted to expect ashfall. Aviation authorities have also cautioned pilots about flying near the volcanic crater due to potential hazards posed by sudden eruptions that could endanger aircraft.

The Mayon Volcano last caused significant disruption in May of this year, covering its surroundings in thick ash. This event affected over 50 villages in the vicinity. Standing at 2,462 meters high, Mayon is known for its regular volcanic activity and is a prominent feature on the Pacific “Ring of Fire”, a particularly seismically active region known for frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

The region's predisposition to geological disruptions was starkly highlighted in 1991 by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Pinatubo, which resulted in the deaths of more than 800 people. Phivolcs continues to monitor the current situation at Mount Mayon closely, emphasizing that the volatile nature of the region means that any significant changes could prompt further action to safeguard local residents. Regular updates are expected as the situation develops.

Source: spiegel.de