Mayon Volcano Remains at Alert Level 3 as Lava Flows Persist

Mayon Volcano in the Philippines remains at Alert Level 3, indicating an increased tendency towards a hazardous eruption, as lava flows continue to extend from its summit crater. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) reported the ongoing activity on Sunday, February 22, 2026.

Current Lava Flow Extent

As of the latest observations, lava flows have reached the following distances in various gullies:

• Basud Gully: 3.8 kilometers (km)
• Bonga Gully: 2.1 km
• Mi-isi Gully: 1.3 km

Recent Volcanic Activity

PHIVOLCS’s 24-hour observation period, from February 21st to February 22nd, 2026, recorded the following:

• One volcanic earthquake
• 375 rockfall events
• Nine pyroclastic density current (PDC) signals

Crater glow remains visible to the naked eye, described as “fair.” Sulfur dioxide emissions averaged 1,271 tonnes per day on February 21st, with volcanic plumes rising up to 1,000 meters above the crater and drifting southwest and west-southwest.

Ground Deformation and Hazard Assessment

Ground deformation data indicates that the volcano edifice remains inflated, suggesting ongoing magma pressure. PHIVOLCS strictly prohibits entry into the six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) due to the risks associated with lava flows, rockfalls, pyroclastic density currents, and other volcanic hazards. PHIVOLCS continues to monitor the situation closely.

Ongoing Eruption Details

The eruption, which began earlier in February, continues to be characterized by lava effusion, collapses at the summit dome, and the generation of pyroclastic density currents (PDCs). Minor, episodic Strombolian activity has also been observed. Volcanodiscovery.com reports that as of February 17th, 2026, 497 seismically detected rockfalls occurred, and seismicity related to pyroclastic density currents was recorded 50 times.

Alert Level and Aviation Status

The current alert level remains at 3 – “Increased Tendency Towards Hazardous Eruption” (on a 0–5 scale). Aviation Alert Level information is currently unavailable or not being collected.

Source: Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS)