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Volcano set for more explosions
15/08/2006 11:52 - (SA)
Bullit Marquez
Legazpi - Fresh deposits of searing gas, rocks and ash have been found on the Philippines' restive Mayon volcano, and scientists warned on Tuesday that more of the destructive flows are likely.
Brief breaks in the clouds covering Mayon indicated fresh deposits in some gullies to the east and northeast of the summit, the Philippine institute of volcanology and seismology said.
"More explosions from the crater are expected, and these shall likely generate pyroclastic flows," the institute said in a statement, referring to the gas, ash and debris flows.
Lava flowing down Mayon has already destroyed wide swaths of farmland and permanently altered the terrain near two villages, volcanologist Ed Laguerta said.
Some 50 hectares of farmland and plantations have been destroyed by the lava that has trickled at least 6.7km since July 14, covering once-fertile agricultural land with molten rock and debris 10-15 meters deep, Laguerta said.
Overnight, instruments recorded four mild ash explosions, 24 volcanic earthquakes and 330 tremors from lava fragments tumbling from the crater and upper slopes.
"The explosions, volcanic earthquakes, lava extrusion and high rates of degassing indicate a continuing high unrest at Mayon," the institute's bulletin said.
Scientists have said the 2 462-metre volcano may be gearing up for an explosive eruption. Mayon started to spew ash and sulphuric dioxide last month. Last week, the institute raised the alert to Level 4 - the second highest of a five-step warning system - on fears of a possible, "hazardous" eruption within days.
- AP
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