Mayon Volcano Erupts, Ashfall Affects Multiple Towns in Albay
📋 Key Takeaway: The eruption of Mayon Volcano on Saturday resulted in significant ashfall across several towns in Albay, prompting emergency response measures and community assistance.
Ashfall Impacts Multiple Barangays
The eruption of Mayon Volcano on Saturday led to thick ashfall covering several towns in the Albay province of the Philippines. The Office of Civil Defence (OCD-5 Bicol) reported that at least 52 villages in the municipalities of Camalig, Guinobatan, and Ligao City were affected.
Specifically, a pyroclastic density current (PDC) occurred at the Mi-isi Gully, impacting 18 barangays in Guinobatan, including Minto, Malabnig, and Mapaco, among others. In Camalig, 17 barangays were affected, including Cabangan and Salugan, while another 17 barangays in Ligao City experienced ashfall.
Emergency Response Initiatives Underway
In response to the eruption, OCD-5 has begun distributing approximately 250 boxes of face masks to residents in Daraga, Camalig, Guinobatan, and Ligao City. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported that the ash plume is moving west-southwest, primarily affecting Camalig and Guinobatan.
Phivolcs estimated that the PDC runout extends 4 kilometers from the volcano. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) District 5 has activated its Deployable Response Group, with over 124 personnel on standby to assist with evacuation and aid for affected communities.
Continuous Monitoring and Community Support
The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) Region 5 has dispatched teams to the affected areas and is providing emergency services in coordination with local disaster risk reduction and management councils. BFP-5 Director Senior Supt. Achilles Santiago confirmed that all personnel in Albay are on high alert and fully prepared to respond.
Emergency response teams are actively engaged in evacuation support, search-and-rescue operations, and other essential services to ensure the safety of residents. The BFP-5 has assured the public of its ongoing support for communities impacted by the eruption.
Public Safety Advisories
Residents in high-risk areas are advised to adhere to instructions from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology and local authorities to ensure their safety amid the ongoing volcanic activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas were affected by the Mayon Volcano eruption?
At least 52 villages in Camalig, Guinobatan, and Ligao City were impacted by the ashfall.
What emergency measures are being implemented?
Emergency response teams are distributing face masks and providing evacuation support and essential services.
How far did the pyroclastic density current extend?
The estimated runout of the pyroclastic density current is 4 kilometers from the volcano.
What should residents do for safety?
Residents in high-risk areas are urged to follow advisories from Phivolcs and local authorities.
