PHIVOLCS reported that unrest continued at Mayon during 31 January-6 February. Crater incandescence was visible daily. The seismic network recorded a few volcanic earthquakes and rockfall signals during the week. A phreatic explosion was recorded by the seismic network at 1647 on 4 February and lasted for two minutes and 49 seconds. The explosion produced an ash-and-steam plume that rose 1.2 km above the summit and drifted SW, ejected blocks onto the flanks, and generated pyroclastic density currents that descended the flanks. Booming noises were reported by residents. The Alert Level remained at 2 (on a 0-5 scale). Residents were reminded to stay away from the 6-km-radius Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) and pilots were advised to avoid flying close to the summit.

Geological Summary. Symmetrical Mayon, which rises above the Albay Gulf NW of Legazpi City, is the most active volcano of the Philippines. The steep upper slopes are capped by a small summit crater. Recorded eruptions since 1616 CE range from Strombolian to basaltic Plinian, with cyclical activity beginning with basaltic eruptions, followed by longer term andesitic lava flows. Eruptions occur predominately from the central conduit and have also produced lava flows that travel far down the flanks. Pyroclastic flows and mudflows have commonly swept down many of the approximately 40 ravines that radiate from the summit and have often damaged populated lowland areas. A violent eruption in 1814 killed more than 1,200 people and devastated several towns.

Sources: Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center (VAAC)