Philippine raises Mayon Volcano alert level as magmatic eruption intensifies

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology has raised the alert level in Mayon Volcano in Albay. From Alert Level 2, state volcanologists raised the Alert Level to 3, which means a hazardous eruption could happen within days or weeks.

The institute said they have monitored an increasing number and volume of rockfall events as well as volcanic earthquakes since January 1st. It has recommended a 6-kilometer radius permanent danger zone due to the danger of lava flows, rockfalls, and other volcanic hazards. The local government in Albay has already ordered the evacuation of more than 2,000 residents within the permanent danger zone.