By Lane Afable, News Editor
The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) said it is on high alert as it closely monitors increased activity at Mayon Volcano on Saturday, May 2, following reports of pyroclastic density currents and other volcanic events.
The PRC said that as of 6 p.m., pyroclastic density currents (PDCs) were observed along the Mi-isi Gully on the south to southwestern slopes of the volcano.
It added that the activity followed minor Strombolian activity at 4:50 p.m. and a lava collapse at 4:28 p.m., which triggered rockfalls and ashfall in nearby areas.
“Our RC143 volunteers are currently on the ground in Camalig, Guinobatan, Legazpi City, and Daraga, providing real-time photographic documentation and situational updates to our operations center,” the humanitarian organization said.
We are in continuous coordination with local authorities and disaster response agencies to ensure the safety of our Bicolano kababayans,” it added.
The PRC urged residents in affected communities to stay on high alert and avoid entering designated danger zones, especially near gullies and river channels where fast-moving hot gas and debris flows may occur.
It also advised those experiencing ashfall to stay indoors, wear protective masks, and ensure that food and water supplies are properly covered to prevent contamination.
In a related development, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said a pyroclastic density current was observed on the southwestern slopes of Mayon at 5:38 p.m., based on camera footage captured by its Quick Response Team.
Phivolcs said Alert Level 3 remains in effect over the volcano, indicating a high level of volcanic unrest.
The agency reiterated that entry into the six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) should be prohibited due to the risk of pyroclastic density currents and other hazards.
