Mayon Volcano Bulletin

14 August 2006

6:00 PM

One (1) explosion was recorded at Mayon Volcano (13.2576°N, 123.6856°E) since 6:00AM until 4:00 PM today. This explosion was generated at about 12:40PM.  Thick rain clouds, however, prevented direct observation of the crater.

Sixteen (16) volcanic earthquakes and 152 tremor episodes were likewise detected. The Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂) emission rate of the plume amounted to 3,493 tonnes per day (t/d), still above the background level of 500 t/d.

More ash explosions are expected in the coming days with a threat from hazardous pyroclastic flows. 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.

Alert Level 4 is still in effect, which means that a hazardous explosive eruption may occur anytime. Thus, the eight (8) kilometer radius - EXTENDED DANGER ZONE (EDZ) in the southeast sector of the volcano should be off-limits at all times. At other areas around the volcano, this EDZ is seven (7) kilometers from the summit crater. Residents of areas outside the EDZ are advised to be on the alert for updates regarding their status for possible evacuation in case volcanic activity intensifies.