Lava effusion from the new summit lava dome and lava collapse events characterized Mayon Volcano’s eruptive activity in the past 24 hours. One hundred forty-three (143) lava collapse events and one (1) tremor were recorded by Mayon’s seismic monitoring network. The lava collapse events corresponded to rockfall along the front and margins of advancing lava and pyroclastic flows downriver of Miisi, Matanag, and Buyuan Gullies within the Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ). These events generated ash cloud that drifted towards the southwest. Sulfur dioxide gas emission was measured at an average of 3293 tonnes/day on January 16, 2018.

Alert Level 3 remains in effect over Mayon Volcano, which means that it is currently in a relatively high level of unrest as magma is at the crater and hazardous eruption is possible within weeks or even days. The public is strongly advised to be vigilant and desist from entering the six (6) kilometer-radius Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) and the 7-km Extended Danger Zone (EDZ) on the southern flanks due to the danger of rockfalls, landslides and sudden explosions or dome collapse that may generate hazardous volcanic flows. Increased vigilance against pyroclastic density currents, lahars and sediment-laden streamflows along channels draining the edifice is also advised. Civil aviation authorities must also advise pilots to avoid flying close to the volcano’s summit as ash from any sudden eruption can be hazardous to aircraft. Based on the seasonal wind pattern, ash fall events may most likely occur on the southwest side of the volcano. DOST-PHIVOLCS maintains close monitoring of Mayon Volcano and any new development will be communicated to all concerned stakeholders.