MAYON Update
Posted on April 17, 2007 - Filed Under Mayon News, Mayon Volcano
This is a notice for the lowering of Mayon activity status from Alert Level 2 (evidence of magmatic intrusion that could eventually lead to an eruption) to Alert Level 1 (no hazardous eruption imminent).
After the alert status was lowered to Alert Level 2 last October 3, 2006, Mayon Volcano (13.2576ºN, 123.6856ºE) has consistently manifested the following:
1. The number of volcanic earthquakes recorded daily (1 3 per day) fell within the threshold level for Mayon of 5 volcanic earthquakes per day;
2. Volcanic tremors associated with magma movement within the volcano conduit as well as those related with the extrusion of lava from the active vent, lava collapse and rockfalls became scarce and most of the time no record at all;
3. Ground deformation measurements showed a deflated volcano edifice indicating no fresh supply of magma from below;
4. The sulfur dioxide emission rate measured at 1,600 to 2,650 tonnes per day (t/d) is coherent with the post eruptive gas emission rate for Mayon Volcano; and
5. The observed crater glow was consistent in intensity (can be observed with the naked eye) but does not indicate any re-intensification of volcanic activity.
The above observations suggest that the volcano’s condition is improving and possibly heading towards normalcy. In view thereof, PHIVOLCS is now lowering the alert status of Mayon Volcano from Alert Level 2 to Alert Level 1. This means that hazardous eruption is not likely to occur. The public, however, is reminded that the 7-km Extended Danger Zone (EDZ) at the southeastern flank of the volcano and the 6-km radius Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) at other areas remain off-limits due to the continuing threat from sudden small explosions, rockfalls from the upper slopes and secondary pyroclastic flows arising from the collapse of newly deposited lavas at the upper and middle slopes. Active river channels and those areas perennially identified as lahar prone in the southeast sector should also be avoided especially during bad weather conditions or when there is heavy and prolonged rainfall.
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