Mayon Volcano Update

16 August 2006

6:00 PM

Four (4) explosions occurred at Mayon Volcano (13.2576°N, 123.6856°E) this afternoon. These mild explosions were recorded at 12:20 PM, 1:07 PM, 1:25 PM and 1:27 PM. However, these events were not visually observed due to prevailing thick clouds at the crater area and upper slopes of the volcano.

Clear views of the crater this morning showed moderate to voluminous grayish white steaming, which drifted towards the northeast. Consequently, traces of ash fell over the vicinity of upper Calbayog. Some lava fragments tumbling into the gullies and adjacent channels in the upper and midslopes of the southeast sector were also visible.

Fifteen (15) volcanic earthquakes associated with magma ascent and 154 tremor episodes generated by lavas impacting the volcano’s slopes were detected since 6:00 AM today.

The Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) emission rate remained very high at 8,086 tonnes/day (t/d). This high value indicates active magma degassing activity.

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 continue to be off-limits. At other areas around the volcano, this EDZ is seven (7) kilometers from the summit crater. Residents of areas outside and adjacent to the EDZ are advised to be on the alert for updates regarding their status for possible evacuation in case volcanic activity intensifies.