Vulcanologists warned that the apparent slowing down of Mayon Volcano compared to more intense activity the past days could be the calm before the storm, and lowering the guard could be costly. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) has retained Alert Level 4 over Mayon, which means a hazardous eruption can occur anytime. PHIVOLCS's bulletin on Saturday said the volcano continued to exhibit a high level of activity, with at least 33 ash explosions that reached maximum heights of 1000 metres above the summit, and over 400 earthquakes. More than 140 rock fall events occured, as lava detached from the volcano's upper slopes. Thirty rumbling and hissing sounds could be heard from an observatory a few kilometres away. The number of earthquakes, ash explosions and audible sounds has decreased compared to its peak levels earlier in the week.The alert level will keep around 50,000 evacuees inside temporary shelters likely through the rest of the holidays. Some have complained of cramped conditions and lack of food.
.jpg)
