Mayon Volcano: Intensified Unrest Continues with Elevated Sulfur Dioxide Emissions
Manila, Philippines – Mayon Volcano in the Philippines remains under Alert Level 3, indicating an intensified unrest and potential for further escalation, as of February 24, 2026. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) continues to closely monitor the volcano following 48 consecutive days of effusive eruption, characterized by continued lava effusion and intermittent hazardous flows.
Recent Activity and Monitoring Data
The effusive eruption of Mayon Volcano began on January 22, 2026, and persists as of February 24, 2026. Recent observations, as of February 23, 2026, reveal ongoing activity within the summit crater. PHIVOLCS reported lava flows observed on the Basud, Bonga, and Misi gullies [1].
Key monitoring data from February 23, 2026, includes:
- Sulfur Dioxide Emissions: A significant surge in sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions, reaching 3,891 tonnes per day [2], indicating magma movement. On February 23, 2026, the volcano emitted 3,217 tonnes of sulfur dioxide in the last 24 hours [1].
- Volcanic Earthquakes: Four volcanic earthquakes were recorded.
- Rockfall and Pyroclastic Density Currents (PDCs): 305 rockfall and PDC signals were detected.
- Crater Glow: A “fair” crater glow, visible to the naked eye, was observed.
- Ground Deformation: PHIVOLCS noted obscured plume and evidence of ground deformation, suggesting an inflated volcano edifice.
Potential Hazards and Safety Measures
PHIVOLCS warns of several potential hazards associated with Mayon Volcano’s ongoing eruption:
- Rockfalls and landslides
- Ballistic fragments
- Lava flows and lava fountaining
- Pyroclastic density currents (PDCs), locally known as “uson”
- Moderate-sized explosions
- Lahars during heavy and prolonged rainfall
entry into the 6-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) is strictly prohibited. Authorities advise against flying any aircraft close to the volcano. Local government units and disaster response offices are maintaining heightened preparedness for potential escalation of volcanic activity, and residents are urged to remain vigilant and follow evacuation and safety directives [1].
Regional Volcanic Activity
Mayon Volcano is not the only volcano exhibiting increased activity. Indonesia’s Ibu Volcano is spewing ash reaching approximately 8,000 ft (2,400 m), while Semeru Volcano’s plume extends to 15,000 ft (4,600 m), impacting air travel. Aoba Volcano in Vanuatu is also experiencing explosive activity with a plume reaching 10,000 ft (3,000 m) [2].
Ongoing Monitoring
PHIVOLCS continues to closely monitor Mayon Volcano for any significant changes in seismicity, ground deformation, gas emissions, and eruptive behavior. Further updates will be provided as the situation evolves.