60 Days and Counting: Mayon Keeps Spewing Lava as Alert Level 3 Holds Steady
Mayon Volcano has now been in a state of magmatic eruption for 60 straight days, with lava flows, volcanic earthquakes, and occasional explosive bursts showing no signs of slowing down. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) confirmed on Friday that the volcano remains under Alert Level 3, meaning hazardous eruptions are still very much on the table.
According to Phivolcs, lava continues to pour down three gullies on Mayon's southern and eastern slopes. The Basud gully has the longest flow at 3.8 kilometers, followed by Bonga at 2.9 kilometers and Mi-isi at 1.3 kilometers. Strombolian activity — short but intense bursts of glowing lava shooting upward — has also been observed, adding to the dramatic display that residents have been watching nervously for two months.
In just 24 hours ending March 6, Phivolcs recorded 333 rockfall events, 48 volcanic earthquakes, and four pyroclastic density currents — those fast-moving clouds of superheated gas and debris locally known as "uson" that can be deadly to anyone caught in their path. Sulfur dioxide emissions remained elevated at 1,139 tons, while a one-kilometer plume drifted from the crater toward the southwest and north-northeast.
The eruption began on January 6, 2026, and has been characterized by effusive activity — a continuous outpouring of lava from the summit rather than massive explosions. But experts warn that the situation could escalate. Phivolcs said that lava fountaining or moderate explosions are possible, and these could affect all sectors surrounding the volcano.
Entry into the six-kilometer permanent danger zone remains strictly prohibited, and residents within an eight-kilometer radius have been told to stay ready for evacuation should the alert level be raised to Level 4. For now, Mayon continues its slow but relentless show of volcanic power — a reminder that nature operates on its own timeline.
Source: Manila Bulletin
