This serves as a notice for the raising of the alert status of Bulusan from Alert Level 0 (normal) to Alert Level 1 (abnormal).

Bulusan Volcano’s monitoring network has recorded a total of fifty-three (53) volcanic earthquakes since 03 July 2020 including forty-three (43) low frequency events that are associated with weak and shallow hydrothermal or magmatic gas activity within the edifice. The increased seismicity could be succeeded by steam-driven or phreatic eruptions at the summit crater or from flank vents on the upper to middle slopes, despite the absence of visible degassing or steaming from the active vents this year. Ground deformation data from continuous GPS measurements also indicate a short-term inflation of the edifice since late February 2020. These parameters indicate that volcanic processes are underway beneath the edifice that may be caused by deep-seated degassing or hydrothermal activity or magmatic intrusion.

 

Alert Level 1 (abnormal) status now currently prevails over Bulusan Volcano, which means that it is currently in an abnormal condition. Local government units and the public are reminded that entry into the four-kilometer radius Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) is strictly prohibited and that vigilance within the two-kilometer Extended Danger Zone (EDZ) on the southeastern sector must be exercised due to the increased possibilities of sudden and hazardous phreatic eruptions. Civil aviation authorities must also advise pilots to avoid flying close to the volcano’s summit as ash from any sudden phreatic eruption can be hazardous to aircraft. Furthermore, people living within valleys and along river/stream channels especially on the southeast, southwest and northwest sector of the edifice should be vigilant against sediment-laden stream flows and lahars in the event of heavy and prolonged rainfall. DOST-PHIVOLCS is closely monitoring Bulusan Volcano’s condition and any new development will be communicated to all concerned stakeholders.

 

DOST-PHIVOLCS