Thousands Evacuated as Philippines' Iconic Mayon Volcano Spews Lava

| 12 June 2023

Around 13,000 residents have been forced to evacuate in north-east Philippines as the country's renowned Mayon Volcano continues to spew lava. The volcano, famous for its "perfect" conical shape, began emitting lava last week, prompting increased volcanic activity and raising the alert level.

Residents living within the designated "permanent danger zone," which spans a six-kilometer radius around Mayon, have been fleeing to shelters using various means of transportation, including lorries and buffalo-drawn carriages. Authorities initiated evacuations over the weekend due to the intensifying volcanic activity and issued alerts to warn the public.

According to Teresito Bacolcol, the country's chief volcanologist, additional evacuations may be necessary if the unrest of Mayon Volcano escalates in the coming days. Currently, the volcano is under the third highest warning level in the country's five-tier system, which indicates the potential for a hazardous or explosive eruption. Scientists note that while Mayon's eruption is progressing slowly, lava is steadily oozing from its crater.

Mayon Volcano, located in the Bicol farming peninsula, is one of the Philippines' most active volcanoes. In recent weeks, it has exhibited heightened activity, characterized by more frequent earthquakes and rockfall from its crater. Bacolcol warned of the danger posed by fast-moving volcanic gases and rocks emitted from the crater, making it challenging to escape their path.

Historically, Mayon has experienced devastating eruptions. In 1814, an eruption claimed the lives of 1,200 people and buried an entire town. Since then, authorities have designated the surrounding perimeter as off-limits, resulting in fewer casualties during subsequent eruptions in 2013 and 2018. Despite the potential dangers, the volcano's fiery red glow has attracted tourists who now gather at designated viewing points to witness the spectacle.

Eugene Escobar, a disaster response official in the region, reported that Mayon once again captivated onlookers as lava flowed from its crater. Among the visitors was French tourist Philip Balselle, who expressed his fortune in witnessing the volcanic activity during his Philippine vacation. Joseph Palasigue, a Filipino tourist from Manila, also marveled at the rare opportunity to witness Mayon's beauty combined with volcanic activity.

Mayon's allure extends beyond its natural wonders. It holds a significant place in Filipino folklore and pop culture, with its name derived from the local word for "beautiful lady" (daragang mayon). The volcano has inspired various artistic expressions, including the gown worn by Filipina beauty queen Catriona Gray during her triumphant moment at the 2018 Miss Universe competition.

Mayon is among the Philippines' 24 active volcanoes. Currently, two other volcanoes, Taal and Kanlaon, are under close surveillance due to signs of unrest. While recent eruptions have not directly caused significant loss of life, the combination of powerful typhoons and volcanic activity in the past has resulted in fatal volcanic mudflows.

In 2006, Typhoon Durian triggered devastating mudslides, burying villages and claiming approximately 200 lives by carrying volcanic debris from Mayon's slopes. Additionally, in 2020, at least 10 people lost their lives in volcanic mudslides triggered by Super Typhoon Goni.

Fortunately, over the weekend, a powerful typhoon from the Pacific missed the Mayon area, providing temporary relief to residents and authorities grappling with the ongoing volcanic activity.

As the situation unfolds, authorities will continue to monitor Mayon Volcano closely and assess the need for further evacuations to ensure the safety of those living in the vicinity. The resilience of the affected communities and the dedication of scientists and officials will be tested as they work together to mitigate the potential risks posed by Mayon's restive nature.