Manila: The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported on Monday that Mayon Volcano’s effusive eruption has continued for 27 consecutive days, resulting in incandescent lava flows, pyroclastic density currents (PDCs) or ‘uson,’ and rockfalls.

According to Philippines News Agency, during a 24-hour monitoring period, Mayon Volcano recorded five volcanic earthquakes, 317 rockfall events, and 30 pyroclastic density currents (PDCs). No sulfur dioxide emissions were detected on Sunday. Lava flows have reached radial distances from the crater of 3.7 km in the Basud Gully (east), 1.6 km in the Bonga Gully (southeast), and 1.3 km in the Mi-isi Gully. Ground deformation or swelling has also been observed at the volcano’s edifice.

Alert Level 3 remains in effect for Mayon, with entry into its 6-km-radius Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) prohibited due to potential hazards, including sudden rockfalls, lava flows or lava fountaining, and lahars during heavy rains. Meanwhile, the Phivolcs reminded the public of safety measures against ashfall, which poses health risks to people and livestock, as well as to aircraft, electronics, and machinery. Volcanic ash consists of tiny rock particles released during a volcanic eruption.

The agency advised residents to stay calm and remain indoors, cover their nose and mouth with a damp, clean cloth or a dust mask, and close all windows and doors of houses and vehicles. Damp towels or cloths should be placed at doorways and other openings where ash can enter. All fruits and vegetables should be thoroughly washed before eating. Moreover, motorists are advised to pull over to the side of the road and stop if heavy ashfall causes poor visibility. Pet owners are also advised to keep animals indoors to prevent them from inhaling ash.