The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) warned that heavy rainfall brought by Tropical Storm “Kristine” could trigger lahars, or volcanic sediment flows, around Mayon Volcano.
Based on PAGASA’s latest bulletin, these rains are expected to affect the Bicol Region and Eastern Visayas today.
According to the Department of Science and Technology’s Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS), prolonged rainfall may lead to lahars along river channels draining Mayon, posing risks to communities on the volcano’s slopes.
“DOST-PHIVOLCS thus strongly recommends increased vigilance and readiness of communities in pre- determined zones of lahar and related hazards on this volcano,” the advisory read.
It identified lahar-prone areas that can potentially be affected which include Miisi, Binaan, Anoling, Quirangay, Maninila, Masarawag, Muladbucad, Nasisi, Mabinit, Matanag, Bonga, Buyuan, Basud, and Bulawan Channels in Albay Province.
The advisory also urged communities and local government units within the identified areas of risk to “continually monitor the tropical storm conditions and take pre-emptive response measures for their safety.”
