Manila: The Philippines has raised the alert level at Mayon Volcano after signs of increasing volcanic unrest, prompting authorities to warn nearby communities to stay away from danger zones.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, known as PHIVOLCS, raised Mayon’s status to Alert Level 3 on Tuesday. This level means magma is moving closer to the surface and an eruption could happen in the coming days or weeks.
Mayon Volcano, located in Albay province in the Bicol region of southern Luzon, has shown growing activity since the start of the year. Monitoring stations recorded hundreds of rockfall events, volcanic tremors and visible lava dome activity near the summit. Scientists said parts of the lava dome have begun to collapse, raising the risk of dangerous pyroclastic flows, lava streams and falling debris.
Authorities have ordered people to keep out of the six kilometer permanent danger zone around the volcano. Local governments have been advised to prepare for possible evacuations, especially in villages that lie along channels where volcanic material could flow downhill.
Aviation authorities have also warned pilots to avoid flying near the summit, as sudden ash emissions could pose risks to aircraft.
Mayon is the most active volcano in the Philippines and is known for its near perfect cone shape. It has erupted more than 50 times in recorded history, with some past eruptions causing deaths and widespread damage.
PHIVOLCS said it is closely monitoring the situation and will issue further updates if activity increases. Residents living near Mayon have been urged to remain alert, follow official advisories and cooperate with local authorities as precautionary measures are stepped up.