Thousands of people are being evacuated from the area south of Manila following the eruption of the Mayon Volcano on Sunday. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology has raised the alert level to three out of five for volcanic activity at Mayon Volcano. This alert level indicates that magma is near or at the surface, posing a risk of a hazardous eruption in the coming weeks.
The institute has observed lava effusion with lava flow in various gullies of the volcano, along with episodic minor strombolian activity and short-lived lava fountaining. Additionally, there have been successive pyroclastic density currents (PDC) and ashfall on the southwestern slope of the volcano.
Authorities have imposed restrictions within a 6-kilometre radius Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) and have prohibited the flying of aircraft near the volcano. The advisory also warns of potential hazards such as rockfalls, landslides, avalanches, ballistic fragments, lava flows, lava fountaining, moderate-sized explosions, and lahars during heavy rainfall.
1,325 families have been affected by the volcanic activity, leading to the rationing of water supply in several villages. The government-run Philippines news agency reported that the Department of Public Works and Highways, along with water filtration units and water sanitation teams, will be involved in clearing roads and providing assistance in the affected areas.
Efforts are underway to address the immediate needs of the affected population, including the distribution of potable water, face masks (including N95 masks), and medicine for respiratory illnesses. The Department of Social Welfare and Development is set to distribute hygiene kits, family food packs, and ready-to-eat meals in evacuation centers. Coordination with the Department of Agriculture will be carried out to assess the damage to livestock and farmlands caused by the volcanic eruption.
