Mayon Volcano produces ash plume amid ongoing seismic activity

Mayon Volcano in Albay, Philippines, produced a weak ash explosion on Thursday morning, sending a grey plume approximately 500 metres above its summit crater. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) reported that the plume drifted east-northeast.

The volcano remains at Alert Level 2, indicating a period of decreased unrest but maintaining the possibility of sudden volcanic activity. PHIVOLCS recorded 26 volcanic earthquakes over a 24-hour period and noted significant sulfur dioxide emissions, which recently spiked to over 8,000 tonnes per day.

Authorities have maintained a strict six-kilometre Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) where entry is prohibited. There are also warnings for aircraft to avoid flying near the volcano. Communities in the vicinity have been advised to prepare for potential hazards, including rockfalls, landslides, and lahars, especially during heavy or prolonged rainfall.