Mayon acts up, Albay alert up

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said pyroclastic density currents, fast-moving clouds of hot gas, ash, and debris were observed as of 6 p.m. along the Mi-isi Gully on the volcano’s south to southwestern slopes.

MAYON Volcano steals the show from residents in the midst of an event in Camalig, Albay, as thick gray smoke billowed into the sky,reducing visibility for some tourists in the area. Authorities continue to assess the extent of the eruption and potential for further activity.PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF HEREINLEGAZPIALBAY/FB

Published on:

02 May 2026, 15:25

Hazardous activity intensified at Mayon Volcano on Saturday afternoon, with pyroclastic flows and minor explosive eruptions prompting urgent warnings for residents to keep out of danger zones.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said pyroclastic density currents (PDCs), fast-moving clouds of hot gas, ash, and debris were observed as of 6 p.m. along the Mi-isi Gully on the volcano’s south to southwestern slopes.

Mayon logs minor strombolian activity, lava effusions anew

The flows were triggered by a lava collapse at 4:28 p.m., which also caused rockfalls and ashfall in nearby communities.

At 4:50 p.m., the volcano exhibited minor Strombolian activity, marked by short bursts of lava and volcanic gases from the crater.

The Philippine Red Cross placed its units on high alert, deploying volunteers in Camalig, Guinobatan, Legazpi City and Daraga to monitor conditions and coordinate with local authorities.

Effusive eruptions continue at Mayon Volcano

Officials warned residents to stay away from gullies and river channels, where PDCs can travel rapidly and without warning.

People in affected areas were advised to remain indoors during ashfall, wear protective masks, and cover food and water supplies.

Mayon last erupted in June 2023, when Phivolcs raised Alert Level 3 due to sustained lava flows and volcanic activity that lasted for months.

Mayon Volcano