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Mayon Volcano Raised to Alert Level 3 After Dangerous ‘Uson’ Events

Lava collapse triggers pyroclastic flows as authorities warn of a possible hazardous eruption.

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Mayon Volcano Raised to Alert Level 3 After Dangerous ‘Uson’ Events

Mayon Volcano is showing serious signs of unrest again. State volcanologists have raised Alert Level 3 after dangerous pyroclastic density currents—locally called “uson”—were recorded in Albay.

The update was announced by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).

What Triggered Alert Level 3

PHIVOLCS said the alert was raised after newly extruded lava collapsed along the Bonga Gully on the volcano’s southeast side around 12:26 p.m.

The collapse produced pyroclastic flows that lasted about three minutes and traveled up to two kilometers from the summit crater, based on seismic data.

Alert Level 3 means Mayon has an increased tendency toward a hazardous eruption, which could happen within days or weeks if activity continues.

What Scientists Are Seeing Now

Volcanologists noted heightened unrest, including frequent rockfalls, clusters of volcanic earthquakes, possible ground movement, and changes in gas and crater activity.

PHIVOLCS also confirmed ongoing magmatic activity at the summit lava dome, raising the risk of lava flows, more pyroclastic flows, and possible explosive eruptions affecting the upper and middle slopes.

Evacuations and Safety Warnings in Place

Residents are advised to stay out of the 6-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ), where risks include pyroclastic flows, lava, and falling rocks. Local officials in Camalig began evacuations within the PDZ on Tuesday afternoon.

Aviation authorities were also warned to keep aircraft away from the summit due to the danger posed by volcanic ash.

Similar to the 2023 Eruption

PHIVOLCS recorded 85 rockfall events in the past 24 hours and said the current activity resembles Mayon’s 2023 eruption, which lasted several months. That said, experts noted activity could still weaken or stop at any time.

For now, authorities are urging the public to stay alert and follow evacuation orders.

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