Phivolcs lowers Mayon’s alert level

MANILA, Philippines  — Mayon Volcano’s alert status has been lowered.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) downgraded the status of the volcano from two or moderate level of unrest to  one or low level.

“This means that the likelihood of an eruption occurring within the immediate future has diminished,” Phivolcs said.

The agency said the lowering of the alert level should not be interpreted that the volcano’s unrest has ceased, noting that eruptible magma accumulated beneath the edifice.

Phivolcs said there has been a decline in the parameters of the volcano since the lowering of the alert status from three to two on March 29, 2018.

It reminded the public to avoid entry into the six-kilometer permanent danger zone due to perennial hazards of rockfall, avalanche, ash puff and sudden steam-driven or phreatic eruption.

Phivolcs advised those living in valleys and active river channels to remain vigilant against sediment-laden streamflows and lahar in the event of prolonged and heavy rainfall.