The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) monitored renewed volcanic activity at Mayon Volcano on the evening of May 18, recording lava effusion and collapse-fed pyroclastic density currents (PDCs), locally known as “uson.” According to state volcanologists, the activity occurred from 9:45 PM to 10:06 PM, with PDCs reaching approximately 2,000 meters from the volcano’s crater toward the Mi-isi Gully.
Time-Lapse Footage Shows Active Eruption
The agency released time-lapse footage showing the flow of lava and collapse of materials from the volcano, indicating continued unrest. This marks the 133rd consecutive day of effusive eruption, producing incandescent lava flows, rockfalls, and PDCs.
Increased Activity Compared to Previous Day
Activity levels were higher than the previous day, with 9 PDC signals and 428 rockfall events recorded in 24 hours, compared to 5 PDC signals and 351 rockfalls in the last report.
Alert Level 3 remains in effect over Mayon Volcano, signifying ongoing magmatic unrest or intensified volcanic activity. PHIVOLCS reminds the public that entry into the 6-kilometer permanent danger zone is strictly prohibited due to the risk of sudden lava discharge, rockfalls, and pyroclastic flows.
