NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Mayon Alert Level Lowered To 2
Photo credit: PHIVOLCS-DOST
Mayon Volcano, known for its majestic yet active nature, has shown signs of calming down as observed by the monitoring network and day-to-day conditions. The alert status has been adjusted from Alert Level 3 to Alert Level 2, reflecting a moderate level of unrest.
In a comprehensive report by the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS), various parameters were analyzed to gauge the volcano's activity.
1. Seismic Activity Decline: The recorded volcanic earthquakes and rock-related events have significantly decreased, signaling a substantial reduction in magma supply to the summit crater.
2. Summit and Lava Flow Observations: Visual monitoring indicates diminishing incandescence of the summit crater and stabilized lava flow fronts, suggesting a halt in magma supply. The total volume of erupted deposits has remained steady at approximately 49 million m3.
3. Ground Deformation: While recent data indicates a decrease in pressurization, the edifice remains generally inflated due to magma intrusion. Short-term deflation and long-term inflation patterns have been observed.
4. Volcanic Degassing:SO2 emissions have experienced a weakening cyclic pattern, pointing towards a reduction in volcanic gas from exposed lava and stored magma. However, minor intrusions of magma continue, aligning with ground deformation data.
Given these findings, DOST-PHIVOLCS has decided to lower the alert level. Despite this adjustment, the public is cautioned against interpreting it as a complete cessation of unrest. The edifice remains inflated, and SO2 emissions are still elevated. Residents are urged to remain vigilant, avoid the Permanent Danger Zone, and take precautions against potential ashfall events and volcanic hazards.
In a comprehensive report by the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS), various parameters were analyzed to gauge the volcano's activity.
1. Seismic Activity Decline: The recorded volcanic earthquakes and rock-related events have significantly decreased, signaling a substantial reduction in magma supply to the summit crater.
2. Summit and Lava Flow Observations: Visual monitoring indicates diminishing incandescence of the summit crater and stabilized lava flow fronts, suggesting a halt in magma supply. The total volume of erupted deposits has remained steady at approximately 49 million m3.
3. Ground Deformation: While recent data indicates a decrease in pressurization, the edifice remains generally inflated due to magma intrusion. Short-term deflation and long-term inflation patterns have been observed.
4. Volcanic Degassing:SO2 emissions have experienced a weakening cyclic pattern, pointing towards a reduction in volcanic gas from exposed lava and stored magma. However, minor intrusions of magma continue, aligning with ground deformation data.
Given these findings, DOST-PHIVOLCS has decided to lower the alert level. Despite this adjustment, the public is cautioned against interpreting it as a complete cessation of unrest. The edifice remains inflated, and SO2 emissions are still elevated. Residents are urged to remain vigilant, avoid the Permanent Danger Zone, and take precautions against potential ashfall events and volcanic hazards.
Dec 8, 2023
