Phreatic eruption at Mayon Volcano on July 18, 2024

The Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS) reported a sudden phreatic eruption at Mayon Volcano at 6:16 p.m. on July 18, 2024.

According to the initial information from the DOST-PHIVOLCS, the eruption lasted less than a minute, with an ash and steam plume reaching an estimated height of 656 feet (200 meters).

The plume drifted west-northwest reportedly, and its light gray color was accompanied by seismic signals observed through Internet Protocol (IP) camera visuals.

The eruption was classified as a phreatic event, indicating that it was driven by steam rather than magma.

The volcano remains at Alert Level 1.

Access to the 6-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) around the volcano remain strictly prohibited. With the current rainy weather, PHIVOLCS advised residents to exercise caution and stay vigilant. —GMA Regional TV