Philippines raises alert at Mayon volcano amid signs of activity

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology raised Mayon's alert to level 3, saying magma is rising and a lava dome is forming. Officials reported monitoring activity and urged people within a 6-kilometre zone to evacuate while asking aviation authorities to avoid the summit.

The Philippines raised the alert level for Mayon volcano to level three on a five-step scale, reporting that magma is pushing up inside the volcano and a lava dome is forming at the summit. Phivolcs warned of possible explosive activity in the coming days or weeks and issued guidance for areas near the volcano. The agency reported recent rockfalls and volcanic earthquakes as part of its monitoring. The volcano is one of the country’s most active and has a history of destructive eruptions. Key facts: - Phivolcs raised Mayon's alert to level three, indicating magma ascent and lava dome formation at the summit. - Officials warned of "potential explosive activity" in the coming days or weeks and advised people within a 6-kilometre danger zone to evacuate. - Since January 1, 2026, Phivolcs recorded 346 rockfalls and four volcanic earthquakes, compared with 599 rockfalls in November–December 2025. - Phivolcs asked civil aviation authorities to advise pilots to avoid flying near Mayon's summit because ash from a sudden eruption can be hazardous to aircraft. Summary: Phivolcs has increased the alert level for Mayon and reported signs of magma movement and dome growth, with agency warnings aimed at reducing exposure to volcanic hazards. Officials noted monitoring activity and issued evacuation and aviation advisories; further developments will depend on ongoing observations.