Phivolcs warns of Mayon lahar threat amid heavy rainfall


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Mayon Volcano (Phivolcs file photo)

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) warned about the potential danger of lahars in Albay, as the shear line continues to bring heavy rainfall over Bicol Region.

Based on the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration’s (PAGASA) weather advisory issued at 5 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 25, moderate to heavy rainfall may continue to affect Albay. 

READ MORE: https://mb.com.ph/2024/12/25/heavy-rains-to-persist

Phivolcs warned that the continuous rains could trigger lahars in areas around Mayon Volcano, potentially leading to hazardous muddy streamflows, runoff, and flooding in river channels.

It added that the heavy rains could remobilize loose volcanic materials from the January to March 2018 eruption, especially in Miisi, Mabinit, Buyuan, and Basud channels.

In addition, older volcanic deposits on the slopes of Mayon could be eroded, which could create non-eruptive lahars.

The lahar threat is particularly high for communities downstream of major volcanic channels such as Miisi, Binaan, Anoling, Quirangay, and Maninila.

Phivolcs urged residents to remain alert, as lahars pose significant risks of flooding, burial, and washouts.