Phivolcs reports increased activity of Bulusan

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported an increase in the activity of Bulusan Volcano since last week, but maintained that the volcano has remained on normal status. But should the volcanic quakes and ground deformation persist, its alert status might change, volcanologists said. In an advisory on Monday night, Phivolcs said Bulusan had recorded a total of 62 volcanic quakes since May 7. Volcanologists also noted a steady inflation of the volcano’s upper slopes since last week. Continuous GPS measurements showed a short-term slight inflation in ground deformation since February. At present, only very weak to weak plumes were observed at the southeast vents. “The increased seismic activity and short-term ground deformation are likely caused by shallow hydrothermal processes beneath the edifice,” the Phivolcs said. “There are increased chances of steam-driven or phreatic eruptions from its active vents,” it added. Located in Sorsogon province, Bulusan was last placed on Alert Level 1 in July last year.

—Jhesset O. Enano