Mayon Volcano erupts in Philippines with 1,600-metre ash plume

Mayon Volcano in the Philippines released a new ash plume reaching approximately 1,600 metres above its summit crater on Tuesday morning. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) detected the minor Strombolian activity at around 8:22 a.m. local time.

The ash plume drifted southwest toward towns in Albay’s third district, including Guinobatan, Jovellar, Libon, Oas, Pio Duran, and Polangui. Residents in these areas have been advised to prepare for light ashfall.

Authorities have maintained Alert Level 3, signaling increased volcanic activity and the potential for a hazardous eruption. This follows a stronger eruption on October 30, which sent an ash column 3,000 metres high and prompted the elevation of the alert status.

Albay Governor Noel Rosal reiterated that human activities remain prohibited within the six-kilometre Permanent Danger Zone due to risks from lava flows, falling rocks, and hot volcanic gases. Despite the activity, the resumption of classes in public and private schools in the region is expected to continue.