Mayon Volcano Nag-Record ng 539 Earthquakes sa Loob ng 24 Hours — Pinakamataas Since January Unrest

Mayon Volcano just logged a staggering 539 volcanic earthquakes in just 24 hours — the highest count since its latest episode of unrest began back in January. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) is closely monitoring the iconic cone-shaped volcano in Albay as seismic activity continues to intensify.

Alert Level 3 remains raised over Mayon, now marking over 70 consecutive days of heightened unrest. Earlier this month, PHIVOLCS recorded 335 volcanic earthquakes in a 48-hour period, along with 734 rockfall events concentrated near the 2,460-meter crater. The tremors have been relentless, with most originating from directly beneath the summit.

Sulfur dioxide emissions have also been alarming. On one particularly bad day last week, SO2 levels hit 5,875 tons — one of the highest readings this year. PHIVOLCS has released time-lapse footage showing minor Strombolian eruptions, with glowing lava trickling down the slopes and pyroclastic density signals drifting southwest.

Despite the dramatic increase in activity, state volcanologists say there is no clear sign of an imminent major eruption within the next few days. However, they are urging residents within the permanent danger zone to remain evacuated and to follow all advisories. Effusive lava flows continue to pour from the crater, and rockfalls remain frequent.

This latest surge in Mayon's activity comes just days after nearby Kanlaon Volcano erupted for the third time this year. With two major volcanoes showing heightened unrest simultaneously, PHIVOLCS has its hands full monitoring the situation. Residents in Albay and surrounding provinces are advised to stay vigilant and prepare for possible escalation. Ingat po, mga kababayan.

Source: Inquirer.net / Daily Tribune