Mayon eruption: No major explosion seen — Phivolcs

LEGAZPI CITY — Mayon Volcano has ejected 40 million cubic meters of volcanic material since its eruption intensified after Alert Level 3 was raised on January 6, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said.

The agency recorded 425 volcanic earthquakes and 396 rockfall events over the past 24 hours, including frequent short-lived lava fountaining and minor Strombolian explosions, Doreen Abelinde, officer in charge of the Mayon Observatory, told the Inquirer in a phone interview on Tuesday.

READ: Mayon volcano activity intensifies with 539 quakes in 24 hours

“Months of continuous eruption have released large volumes of lava and gas, reducing the likelihood of a major destructive explosion,” Abelinde said, but she warned that moderate blasts remain possible.

She also said lava flow is continuous and may persist unless the volcanic conduit becomes clogged.

“Total lava output is estimated at 21.47 million cubic meters, which can be assumed to double to include lava collapse PDC, and rockfall deposit volumes,” she added.

Despite the heightened activity, the volcano remains stable, with no significant buildup of pressure observed, Abelinde said. /mcm