Mayon Volcano Bulletin

14 August 2006

7:30 AM

Mayon Volcano (13.2576°N, 123.6856°E) generated eight (8) mild explosions during the past 24-hour observation period.  These explosions occurred at 7:56AM, 8:10AM, 8:52AM, 9:15AM, 9:46AM, 1:15PM, 3:54PM and 9:15PM yesterday. However, these events were not seen because of thick clouds covering the summit area and middle slopes of the volcano during the entire observation period.

Sixteen (16) volcanic earthquakes, which indicate active magma ascent into the crater and 322 tremor episodes, associated with the collapse of fragments from the advancing lava flow were also recorded during this period. The Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂) emission rate was still high, measured at 5,427 tonnes per day (t/d) yesterday afternoon.

More pyroclastic flows will probably occur in the following days due to progressing explosions. The southeast sector of the volcano is most susceptible to small pyroclastic flows generated by explosions because the crater rim is lowest in this direction. However, if an eruption generates tall eruption clouds, then pyroclastic flows are likely to affect any direction from the crater.

The public is reminded that Alert Level 4 is still in effect, which means that a hazardous explosive eruption may occur anytime. Thus, the eight (8) kilometer - EXTENDED DANGER ZONE (EDZ) in the southeast sector of the volcano should be observed at all times. In this regard, PHIVOLCS reminds everyone to observe safety precautions relevant with this alert level. At other areas around the volcano, this EDZ is seven (7) kilometers from the summit crater. Areas outside of the EDZ are advised to be on the alert for updates regarding their status for possible evacuation in case volcanic activity intensifies.