55 Days and Counting: Mayon Keeps Spewing Lava While Bulusan Shows Signs of Waking Up

Mayon Volcano in Albay shows no signs of cooling down, as the Philippines' most active volcano continues its effusive eruption for the 56th consecutive day. PHIVOLCS captured time-lapse footage of minor strombolian bursts at the summit crater at 2:37 a.m. and 2:47 a.m. on Monday, March 2 — small but explosive lava fountains shooting upward from the crater.

The ongoing eruption has been producing lava flows, pyroclastic density currents or "uson," and rockfalls along Mayon's upper southern and eastern slopes. Alert Level 3 remains in effect since January 6, signaling intensified magmatic unrest and the possibility of more hazardous eruptions.

Meanwhile, Bulusan Volcano in Sorsogon is also raising concerns. PHIVOLCS recorded 49 volcanic earthquakes over the past week starting February 26, including 16 volcano-tectonic events linked to rock fracturing three to six kilometers beneath the volcano's northern and southeastern edifice.

While Bulusan remains at Alert Level 0 — meaning no magmatic eruption is expected — the agency warned that the spike in seismic activity could indicate hydrothermal processes that may trigger sudden phreatic or steam-driven eruptions. Residents are advised to stay away from the four-kilometer permanent danger zone.

With two volcanoes in the Bicol region showing heightened activity at the same time, local government units have been told to prepare their emergency response plans. PHIVOLCS also cautioned pilots to avoid flying near both summits.

Source: Manila Bulletin