The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) raised the alert level of Mayon Volcano to Alert Level 3. This escalation indicates an "increased tendency towards a hazardous eruption" as an effusive magmatic eruption is currently taking place. The eruption involves the slow extrusion of shallow degassed magma, which is gradually increasing in rate. As a result, there is a heightened risk of lava flows, pyroclastic density currents (PDCs), and potential explosive activity within weeks or even days.
Evacuation Efforts and Danger Zone
In response to the increased volcanic activity, Phivolcs has ordered the evacuation of the 6-kilometer radius permanent danger zone around Mayon Volcano. The evacuation is necessary to protect people from potential hazards such as PDCs, lava flows, rockfalls, and other volcanic phenomena [1]. Authorities are urging residents within this zone to be vigilant and remain cautious about pyroclastic density currents, lahars, and sediment-laden streamflows along channels draining the volcano.
Evacuation Status and Challenges
As of June 10, approximately 2,000 people from over 600 families within the permanent danger zone have been evacuated. The ongoing evacuation efforts aim to transfer all remaining families in six towns to temporary shelters [2]. The local government declared a state of calamity to facilitate the immediate release of P30 million in calamity funds to address the needs of evacuees, although these funds are expected to last for only 15 to 20 days.
Challenges have emerged with the evacuation process. Some evacuees have expressed concerns about poor conditions in the temporary shelters, including excessive heat inside modular tents and a lack of water in the restrooms. However, efforts are underway to address these issues, with relief goods and additional assistance being distributed to affected residents by the local government and relevant agencies.
Ongoing Monitoring and Support
Phivolcs continues to closely monitor Mayon Volcano's activity, particularly any significant changes in volcanic parameters and the level of sulfur dioxide emissions, which can indicate potential explosive activities. The Office of Civil Defense is providing support in terms of delivering drinking water, assisting with waste management in evacuation centers, and prepositioning food packs and non-food items for affected communities.
Conclusion
With Mayon Volcano at Alert Level 3 and an ongoing effusive magmatic eruption, the potential for a hazardous eruption necessitates proactive measures to protect the communities residing within the permanent danger zone. Evacuation efforts are underway, with thousands of individuals already relocated to temporary shelters. Authorities are working diligently to address the challenges associated with the evacuation process and provide necessary support to the affected residents. Continued monitoring and close coordination between relevant agencies are crucial to ensuring the safety and well-being of the communities in the vicinity of Mayon Volcano.
References:
SITE: https://news.abs-cbn.com/news/06/13/23/90-day-evacuation-scenario-eyed-amid-mayon-unrest
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