Mayon Volcano Eruption: Latest Updates and Satellite Imagery

The Philippines’ Mayon volcano, known for its near-perfect conical shape, has been erupting since January 2026, prompting evacuations and capturing the attention of scientists and satellite observers worldwide. Recent imagery from NASA’s Landsat 8 satellite provides a rare glimpse into the ongoing volcanic activity.

Mayon Volcano: A History of Activity

Mayon volcano, located on Luzon Island near the Albay and Lagonoy gulfs, is the most active volcano in the Philippines. Historical records indicate it has erupted 65 times over the past 5,000 years [NASA]. The volcano rises more than 2,400 meters (8,000 feet) above sea level and is a significant geological feature of the region.

Recent Eruption and Satellite Observations

The current eruption began in January 2026, with increased rockfalls and inflation of the mountain’s upper slopes reported by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) [NASA]. Lava flows and pyroclastic flows – hot clouds of ash and debris – prompted the alert level to be raised to three on a five-level scale on January 6th [NASA].

On February 26, 2026, NASA’s Landsat 8 satellite captured images of the eruption, revealing bright red lava flows against the green landscape. The Operational Land Imager (OLI) instrument on Landsat 8 used both visible and near-infrared light to highlight the lava’s heat signature [Yahoo], [Science@NASA]. Pyroclastic flows had traveled approximately 4 kilometers (3 miles) through the Mi-isi Gully on the southeast flank of the volcano [NASA].

Impact and Evacuations

The eruption has displaced hundreds of families from communities including Tabaco City, Malilpot, and Camalig [NASA]. Authorities maintained a level-three alert in March, prompting evacuations within a 6-kilometer (4-mile) radius of the crater [NASA]. Previous eruptions, such as the one in 1993, have resulted in significant casualties, with at least 77 fatalities [Yahoo].

Looking Ahead

As of March 13, 2026, Mayon volcano remains active, with ongoing lava flows and the potential for further eruptions. PHIVOLCS continues to monitor the situation closely, and residents in surrounding areas remain on alert. Satellite imagery will continue to play a crucial role in tracking the eruption’s progress and providing valuable data for hazard assessment.