Mayon Volcano Erupts: Alert Level Raised Amid Lava Dome Collapse

On January 6, 2026, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) raised the alert level for Mayon Volcano in Albay province to Level 3, indicating a significant increase in volcanic activity. This decision was prompted by the collapse of the lava dome at the volcano's summit, which resulted in the release of new lava and the generation of pyroclastic density currents (PDCs). The lava effusion was observed between 6:35 PM and 7:00 PM local time on January 7, with video footage capturing the accompanying crater glow and pyroclastic flows moving toward the Bonga gully.

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Mayon Volcano is the most active of the Philippines' 22 volcanoes, having erupted over 50 times in the last four centuries. Its last significant eruption occurred in June 2023, which involved the expulsion of lava and noxious gases. Historically, the volcano's most catastrophic eruption took place in February 1841, burying an entire town and resulting in approximately 1,200 fatalities. The current alert level increase follows a series of volcanic unrest signs, including a rise in magma beneath the surface, which was first noted on January 1, 2026, when the alert level was raised from Level 1 to Level 2.

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The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) is the primary authority monitoring volcanic activity in the Philippines. Their assessments and advisories are crucial for public safety, especially in areas surrounding active volcanoes like Mayon.

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Phivolcs has strongly advised residents within the six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone to evacuate due to the heightened risk of lava flows, rockfalls, and explosive activity. They have also urged civil aviation authorities to restrict flights near the volcano to prevent hazards from volcanic ash. The institute emphasized the importance of vigilance, stating, “Increased vigilance against pyroclastic density currents, lahars, and sediment-laden streamflows along channels draining the edifice is also advised.”

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While Phivolcs has taken proactive measures to ensure public safety, some local residents have expressed concerns about the adequacy of evacuation plans and the potential economic impact of forced evacuations on their livelihoods. Critics argue that more comprehensive support systems should be in place to assist those displaced by volcanic activity.

The Statesman

There are discrepancies in the reported number of rockfall events since January 1, 2026. Phivolcs recorded 346 rockfalls and four volcanic earthquakes, while other sources noted a higher figure of 364 rockfalls. This variation highlights the ongoing challenges in monitoring volcanic activity accurately.

The Statesman

As the situation develops, Phivolcs will continue to monitor Mayon Volcano closely. Residents are advised to stay informed through official channels as conditions may change rapidly, potentially leading to further evacuations or safety measures.

Philippines Raises Alert Level at Restive Mayon Volcano

• “This means that Mayon is exhibiting a magmatic eruption of a summit lava dome, with increased chances of lava flows and hazardous pyroclastic density currents (PDCs), affecting the upper to middle slopes of the volcano and of potential explosive activity within days or weeks,” — Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology

The Statesman

• “The public is strongly advised to be vigilant and refrain from entering the six-kilometre-radius Permanent Danger Zone,” — Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology

The Statesman

• “The volume of discrete rockfall, with observed incandescence at nighttime, increased yesterday (Monday, January 5), signaling an increase in the rate of dome growth and the onset of extrusion of new lava at the crater,” — Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology

Rappler