Phivolcs warns of possible lahar flows from Mayon

Tropical Storm “Dante,” Severe Tropical Storm “Emong,” and the ongoing southwest monsoon or habagat are expected to bring rains over the Bicol Region that may generate volcanic sediment flows or lahar, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) warned.

In an advisory issued on the morning of 24 July, Phivolcs said rainfall from the weather systems may remobilize volcanic deposits in areas surrounding Mayon Volcano in the province of Albay.

“Heavy to torrential rainfall can generate post-eruption lahars on major channels draining Mayon Volcano by incorporating loose material from remnant pyroclastic density current (PDC) deposits of the 2018 and 2023 Mayon eruptions,” Phivolcs said.

It added that volcanic mudflows and muddy stream water may occur along Miisi, Binaan, Anoling, Quirangay, Maninila, Masarawag, Muladbucad, Nasisi, Mabinit, Matanag, Basud, and Bulawan channels in Albay Province.

Mayon Volcano last erupted on 3 February 2024. It remains under Alert Level 1, indicating low-level unrest.

From 12 AM of 23 July to 12 AM of 24 July, Phivolcs recorded two volcanic earthquakes and five rockfall events.

Phivolcs reiterated its call for close monitoring of weather conditions and preemptive action among residents and local government units in identified lahar-prone areas.