Philippines' most active volcano: Mayon eruption may last months | DW News

Summary

Nearly 15,000 people in the Philippines have been evacuated due to volcanic activity from the Mayon Volcano, which began spewing hot lava and ash. A seven-kilometer danger zone has been established, with farmers reluctant to leave their livelihoods behind. Authorities anticipate a possible hazardous eruption soon. While evacuations are currently voluntary, many have already moved to shelters. The volcano, one of the Philippines' most active, has a history of deadly eruptions. Preparations are ongoing, but challenges remain in housing people and providing essential supplies.

Takeaways

• 🌋 Nearly 15,000 people in the Philippines have been evacuated due to the Mayon Volcano spewing hot lava.
• 🛑 A seven-kilometer danger zone has been established around the volcano to protect nearby residents.
• 🌋 The Mayon Volcano, located in Albay province, is the Philippines' most active volcano, with its last eruption occurring in 2018.
• 🔥 The volcano began spilling lava on June 11 after several days of smoke and gas emissions.
• 😷 Nearby residents are being affected by harmful dust, lava, and ash falling from the volcano.
• 🚜 Most of the evacuated people are farmers, reluctant to leave their livelihoods and livestock behind.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Evacuees are staying in evacuation centers, with authorities providing food, water, and shelter, although more resources are needed.
• 🚨 The volcano's alert level is at 3, indicating a hazardous eruption could occur within weeks or days.
• 🐄 Authorities have also evacuated around 10,000 farm animals to shelters outside the danger zone.
• 🌎 The Philippines is used to dealing with volcanic eruptions due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire, but long-term displacement remains a challenge for residents.

Q & A

What is the current situation with the Mayon Volcano in the Philippines?

The Mayon Volcano in the Philippines has been spewing hot lava, leading to the evacuation of nearly 15,000 people. Authorities have established a seven-kilometer danger zone around the volcano.

When did the volcanic activity at Mayon begin?

The Mayon Volcano began spewing hot lava on June 11, following days of smoke and gas emissions.

What are the main concerns for the villagers living near Mayon Volcano?

The villagers are concerned about their safety due to the volcanic activity, but many are also worried about leaving behind their livelihoods, particularly their livestock.

Why are some people choosing to stay in the danger zone despite the warnings?

Some people are choosing to stay because evacuations are not yet mandatory. Many are reluctant to leave their homes and livestock behind, which are their primary source of income.

What measures are local authorities taking to ensure people's safety?

Local authorities have evacuated nearly 15,000 people and 10,000 farm animals. They have set up evacuation centers, and a seven-kilometer danger zone is being strictly enforced by the police and army.

What challenges are the evacuees facing in the evacuation centers?

Evacuees are staying in makeshift camps, schools, and community centers. They are facing challenges like lack of proper shelter, food, clean drinking water, and an uncertain duration of displacement.

How is the government supporting the displaced families?

Each family in the evacuation centers is given a tent, hot meals, and a box of supplies that includes powdered milk, sardines, rice, and other basic necessities.

How prepared is the Philippines for volcanic eruptions like the one from Mayon?

The Philippines is accustomed to volcanic activity due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire. Authorities have experience handling such situations and are evacuating people based on daily assessments of the volcano's activity.

Has Mayon Volcano caused significant destruction in the past?

Yes, Mayon Volcano has had deadly eruptions in the past. In 1814, one of its eruptions killed over 1,000 people and buried several villages.

What is the forecast for Mayon’s activity in the near future?

The volcano is currently at alert level 3, which indicates that a hazardous eruption could occur within weeks or days, according to authorities.