Thin layers of volcanic ash fell over parts of Albay early Thursday, January 8 following a lava dome collapse at the summit of Mayon Volcano. The collapse generated pyroclastic density currents (PDCs), fast-moving flows of hot gas and volcanic debris, as the volcano remained on Alert Level 3, indicating high volcanic unrest.
Ashfall Reaches Several Communities
According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), the collapse produced grayish ash clouds that rose roughly one kilometer before drifting west-northwest at around 6:51 a.m. Areas affected include parts of Legazpi City and Ligao City, as well as the towns of Guinobatan, Bacacay, Camalig, and Daraga.
Governor Noel Rosal instructed local officials to distribute face masks and assess the situation on the ground, urging residents to stay vigilant and follow safety advisories as volcanic activity continues.
Evacuations Underway Amid Alert Level 3
Authorities confirmed that 2,889 residents within the six-kilometer permanent danger zone were evacuated as of Wednesday. These evacuees come from Daraga, Camalig, Guinobatan, Malilipot, Ligao City, and Tabaco City.
Rosal warned that if Phivolcs raises the alert to Level 4—signaling a hazardous eruption—50,000 to 70,000 families may need to evacuate. In the last 24 hours, Phivolcs recorded 162 rockfalls, 50 PDCs, and a volcanic earthquake. A crater glow was also observed Wednesday evening due to superheated volcanic gas illuminating the area above the summit.
Government Ensures Support for Evacuees
Phivolcs Director Teresito Bacolcol emphasized that no lava flows have been seen, noting that glowing materials on the slopes were from hot rockfalls. He described the current activity as a “quiet eruption,” with magma slowly building at the summit, causing partial collapses of the lava dome.
Meanwhile, Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian assured residents that the government would continue providing aid. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has ample food and supplies and is coordinating with local officials to set up temporary shelters, including modular tents, to protect evacuees and maintain privacy.
