Alert level 2 up in Mayon Volcano

Government volcanologists have hoisted alert level 2 around Mayon Volcano, which has been showing signs of unrest.

According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), the seismic network around Mayon Volcano recorded 19 low-frequency, one explosion-type and two high-frequency earthquakes in the past 24 hours.

Phivolcs said the "shallow movement of magma below the summit crater" is causing the low-frequency earthquakes.

Steam emission from the summit, however, has remained weak, it added.

The other day, a minor ash explosion occurred following 147 low-frequency earthquakes.

The ash column rose about 500 meters above the crater before drifting to the southwest.

A small explosion-type earthquake recorded by seismographs accompanied the ash ejection.

Because of the seismic unrest that may lead to hazardous and sudden steam-driven explosions, Phivolcs raised alert level 2 and advised the public to stay away from the six-kilometer radius permanent danger zone and avoid major river channels emanating from the volcano.