Posts Tagged ‘volcano’
Posted by feww on May 25, 2012
FIRE-EARTH FORECAST: Beerenberg Volcano on Jan Mayen Island Could Erupt Explosively [P≥ 64%]
The 2,280-m stratovolcano located on Jan Mayen Island could erupt this year with a probability of at least 64 percent.
The 6.2Mw earthquake (72.994°N, 5.651°E; 8.8 km; Thursday, May 24, 2012 at 22:47:46 UTC) and its subsequent aftershocks that occurred in the Norwegian Sea may have primed the volcano for an explosive eruption.
Jan Mayen Island (71°N 8°30′W) featuring Beerenberg Volcano. Source: Jan Mayen
Jan Mayen (Norway) is a volcanic island located in the north Atlantic Ocean, some 950km west of Norway and 600 km north of Iceland. The view of the island is dominated by the active volcano Beerenberg (2,280m), which last erupted in 1985, emitting an estimated total of about 2 x 107 m3 of lava and other volcanic matter.
Earthquake and Volcano Links
Posted in volcano alert, volcano eruption, Volcano Watch, volcanoes | Tagged: Beerenberg volcano, earthquake, Earthquake Norwegian Sea, Jan Mayen, Olonkin City, volcano | Leave a Comment »
Posted by feww on May 5, 2010
Iceland’s Volcanoes Could Potentially Cause Collapse of Europe
Eyjafjallajökull Volcanic Ash closes Airspace over Ireland and Scotland Once Again
Airspace over Northern Ireland and Scotland will be closed from 07:00 to 13:00GMT (UTC) on Wednesday due to a new cloud of volcanic ash drifting from Eyjafjallajökull Glacier volcano in Iceland, the UK Civil Aviation Authority said.
The ash cloud is expected to move further south, possibly forcing the closure of airspace in the NW England and north Wales today.
“The situation is very dynamic, so passengers expecting to travel from the impacted airports should contact their airlines to check whether their flight is operating,” CAA website said.
Volcanic Ash Advisory from London – Latest graphics click image to enlarge
These images are monitoring for the presence of volcanic ash emission in the vicinity of Iceland using infrared data from the Meteosat Second Generation (MSG) satellite. Because cloud particles and volcanic ash particles interact with the infrared radiation in different ways, data at several different wavelengths can be combined to identify the main ash plume, which, when present, would be shown as yellow and orange colours in the images. Note that it is only the thicker parts of the plume that are able to be detected by this method. In addition, the ash plume is often masked by overlying high cloud. Source and Copyright EUMETSAT/Met Office.
A Webcam Image of Eyjafjallajökull Eruption saved by Icelandic Review yesterday. The webcams seemed to be out of action today.
One function of webcams is to prevent unnecessary traffic to the site of volcano, which could also be extremely hazardous.
Icelandic Met Office said:
Plume was observed at 5.8-6 km height (19-20,000 ft) estimated from the Icelandic Coast Guard (ICG) flight at 10:40 and 15:30 GMT. It is heading east-south-east to south-east from the eruption site. Plume track clearly visible up to 300-400 km distance from the eruption site on a NOAA satellite image at 13:13 GMT.
On lava flow they reported:
Lava is still flowing northwards, forming a lava fall down the steep hill under Gígjökull, about 4 km north of the crater. Blue gas is seen rising from the lava and white steam plumes are seen somewhat lower and mark the front of the lava stream. The size of the eruptive crater is 280 x 190 m. Lava splashes are thrown at least a few hundred meters into the air.
Status Report: 14:00UTC, 04 May 2010 – IMO and Earth Science Island:
Explosive activity and ash production is strong and has increased since yesterday. Dark ash plume rises above the crater. Lava is still flowing northwards, forming a lava fall down the steep hill under Gígjökull, about 4 km north of the crater. Blue gas is seen rising from the lava and white steam plumes are seen somewhat lower and mark the front of the lava stream. Radar images from ICG-flight today show tunnels in Gígjökull increasing in size and continuing the build up of the cone at the crater. The size of the eruptive crater is 280m x 190m. Lava splashes are thrown at least a few hundred meters into the air.
Related Links:
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Serial No 1,673. Starting April 2010, each entry on this blog has a unique serial number. If any of the numbers are missing, it may mean that the corresponding entry has been blocked by Google/the authorities in your country. Please drop us a line if you detect any anomaly/missing number(s).
Posted in environment, iceland volcanoes, Icelandic ash cloud, Icelandic volcano | Tagged: Eyjafjallajökull eruption, UK airspace closure, volcanic eruption, volcano | 2 Comments »
Posted by feww on April 18, 2010
The sun turns dark
Earth sinks in the sea, the fair, bright stars disappear from the heavens
Ragnarök
The sun turns dark,
earth sinks in the sea,
the fair, bright stars
disappear from the heavens.
Sizzling blaze
around the tree of life
colossal heat plays with
the heavens. —Völuspá
The above stanzas were quoted from the famous Nordic poem Völuspá in the Iceland Review. Völuspá, Prophecy of the Völva, tells the story of creation of the world and how it comes to its end, and is arguably the most important source for understanding the Norse mythology.
Yggdrasil, a modern representation of the world tree which is central to Norse mythology. The world tree is a motif that appears in some Indo-European religions and mythologies. It is represented as a giant tree that supports the heavens, connects it to the earth, and the underground through its roots.
“It was like the sun had gone out in the middle of the day.”
Iceland Review editor Bjarni Brynjólfsson and photographer Páll Stefánsson wondered how it was to drive through the area affected by the eruption: “We tried driving into the darkness and it was like we had stepped into another dimension. We felt it was the end of the world as described in Völuspá, the old Icelandic Poem the tells the story of the end of the world called Ragnarök or Götterdämmerung in the famous opera by Wagner.” More …
What Happened to Disaster Tourism?
The rascals coiled their tails and ran for the coast. Nearby roads covered in a thick blanket of volcanic ash. Credit: Ómar Óskarsson via MBL-Is. Image may be subject to copyright.
For all previous entries and and related links click
See also
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Serial No 1,587. Starting April 2010, each entry on this blog has a unique serial number. If any of the numbers are missing, it may mean that the corresponding entry has been blocked by Google/the authorities in your country. Please drop us a line if you detect any anomaly/missing number(s).
Posted in Disaster Tourism, Norse mythology, Völuspá, Völva, Yggdrasil | Tagged: Eldgjá, Eyjafjallajökull, Eyjafjallajökull eruption, Eyjafjallajökull eruption melts glacier, Eyjafjallajökull glacier, Fimmvörduháls, Götterdämmerung, glacier flood, Iceland volcano, Katla, Laki, Markarfljót river, Ragnarök, volcanic eruption, volcano | 5 Comments »
Posted by feww on April 17, 2010
Webcams Show Heightened Activity
Eruption at Eyjafjallajökull has steadily Intensified in the past 3 hours
Eyjafjallajökull has resumed explosive activity in the past 3 hours, having earlier slowed down to sporadically ejecting single plumes of ash once every 2 to 3 minutes.
The following are latest images obtained from two webcams that are trained on Eyjafjallajökull at Valahnúk and Hvolsvelli stations. The images show a constant stream of ash, steam and fumes spewed from the Icelandic volcano.The images are provided by Míla ehf and may be subject to copyright.
Valahnúk Webcam freeze frame of Eyjafjallajökull at 08:55UTC .
Hvolsvelli Webcam Image of Eyjafjallajokull also recorded at 08:55UTC.
The following irregular sequence of images were recorded from Hvolsvelli Webcam.
[L-R and T-B] Freeze frames shows a large plume of ash, steam and gasses ejected from the volcano just after sunrise at 5;16UTC on April 17, 2010. The ash plume seen in the first frame above dispersed (second frame) within minutes of being ejected from Eyjafjallajokull; however, after a series of explosions that occurred about 30 seconds later, another plume was ejected out of the volcano’s crater. The new plume seemed to be slightly larger than the previous one. Click image to enlarge.
Another sequence of images recorded simultaneously from Hvolsvelli and Valahnúk Webcams.
[T - B] The above freeze frames were recorded at about 5:31UTC, showing single plumes of ash and gasses ejected from Eyjafjallajokul. Click image to enlarge.
[T - B] The above freeze frames were recorded at about 5:35UTC. Most of the frames show two plumes, indicating a gradual increase in the frequency of eruptions at Eyjafjallajokul. Click image to enlarge.
This frame was recorded at 5:40UTC showing 3 plumes which meant the eruptions at Eyjafjallajokul had further intensified. Click image to enlarge.
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Serial No 1,586. Starting April 2010, each entry on this blog has a unique serial number. If any of the numbers are missing, it may mean that the corresponding entry has been blocked by Google/the authorities in your country. Please drop us a line if you detect any anomaly/missing number(s).
Posted in Eyjafjallajökull, Fimmvörduháls, Iceland volcano, Katla | Tagged: Eyjafjallajökull eruption, Eyjafjallajökull eruption melts glacier, Eyjafjallajökull glacier, glacier flood, Hekla volcano, Hvolsvelli, Markarfljót river, Valahnúk, volcanic eruption, volcano | 2 Comments »
Posted by feww on April 17, 2010
Eyjafjallajökull Still Erupting
40,000 flights grounded since Thursday to avoid engine failure from Eyjafjallajökull ash
A new round of flooding has affected the areas around Eyjafjallajokull, as hot gases from the volcano continue to break up and melt the glacier that covers it.
Huge volumes of floodwater and massive chunks of ice, some reportedly as large as 3-story apartment blocks, have forced about 1,000 locals to evacuate their homes, most of them for a second time in 3 days. The floodwaters have almost completely washed off a causeway along the flooded Markarfljot river, which was severely damaged in the first round of flooding.
According to a local report, the eruption is somewhat weakening, and Eyjafjallajökull is producing less ash, for now.
Sunrise at Eyjafjallajokull
Valahnúk Webcam freeze frame of Eyjafjallajökull shortly after sunrise.
Hvolsvelli Webcam Image of Eyjafjallajokull. Freeze frame shows a large plume of ash, steam and gasses ejected from the volcano just after sunrise at 5;16UTC on April 17, 2010. The ash plume seen above dispersed within minutes of appearing, but about 30 seconds and a series of explosions later, a larger plume was spewed out of the volcano’s crater. See the dramatic sequences in the next update.
Click image to enlarge.
Staff from the Icelandic Meteorological Office flew with the Icelandic Coast Guard to the Eyjafjallajökull eruption site on the afternoon of April 16th 2010. At 4 pm the volcanic ash cloud was clearly visible above the cloud deck, rising at times to at least 30,000 feet. Steady winds from the east-north-east moved the cloud away from the volcano. The cloud height was variable from 25 to 30,000 feet and its colour varied from dark to white, depending on how much ash was in the cloud. Credit: Icelandic Met Office. Image may be subject to copyright.
The Surreality Test. Credit: Jónas Erlendsson via MBL-Is. Image may be subject to copyright.
The above photo shows the outlet glacier, which is dark at the top due to mud from the flash floods. At the base the glacier flows to the right of a large cracked rock.Credit: Icelandic Met Office. Image may be subject to copyright. More Photos…
A diagrammatic illustration of volcanic ash dispersion up to 20,000 ft, issued at 7 pm on 16 April. Advisory charts are issued every six hours, for up to 18 hours ahead, by the Volcanic Ash Advisory Center. Source: UK Met Office.
According to the UK Met Office the cloud were moving over northern France and Austria, as well as eastern and central Russia. © Copyright EUMETSAT/Met Office.
The ash particles range in size from 15 × 20 µm to 70 × 85 µm. (1 µm is a millionth of a meter, or a thousands of a millimeter).
Ash dust particles (at ×400) collected from Aberdeen on the morning of 16 April. These particles are approximately 60 × 70 µm.
Ash dust particles at ×100. Source and Copyright Scottish Environment Protection Agency.
Geoengineer This!
Credit: Golli / Kjartan Þorbjörnsson via MBL-Is. Image may be subject to copyright.
What Happend to Disaster Tourism?
The rascals coiled their tails and ran for the coast. Nearby roads covered in a thick blanket of volcanic ash. Credit: Ómar Óskarsson via MBL-Is. Image may be subject to copyright.
The All Important Pronunciation: ‘Aye-ya fyah-tla jow-kutl
Related Links:
Videos
More Photos:
Technical information:
Webcams – Volcanoes in Iceland
Latest Images (RUV): http://www.ruv.is/flokkar/hamfarir
Related Headline News
Related Sites in Iceland (English)
Fire-Earth Links:
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Serial No 1,585. Starting April 2010, each entry on this blog has a unique serial number. If any of the numbers are missing, it may mean that the corresponding entry has been blocked by Google/the authorities in your country. Please drop us a line if you detect any anomaly/missing number(s).
Posted in Eyjafjallajökull, Fimmvörduháls, Iceland volcano, Katla, Laki | Tagged: Eyjafjallajökull eruption, Eyjafjallajökull eruption melts glacier, Eyjafjallajökull glacier, glacier flood, Markarfljót river, volcanic eruption, volcano | 4 Comments »
Posted by feww on April 17, 2010
Ash cloud from Eyjafjallajökull eruption has grounded about 30,000 flights, so far!
Ash from Iceland’s erupting Eyjafjallajökull Volcano had drifted over northern Europe by April 16, 2010. The brown ash is mixed with clouds in this photo-like image taken by MODIS on NASA’s Terra satellite at 12:45 p.m. local time (GMT/UTC+2) on April 16,2010. The visible ash sweeps in an arc across the Netherlands, Germany, Poland, and Russia. Additional ash is most probably masked by clouds. Source: NASA. Click image to enlarge.
The Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA’s Terra satellite captured this natural-color image on April 15, 2010. A volcanic plume blows from Eyjafjallajökull Volcano in southern Iceland toward the east-southeast. The plume’s tan hue indicates a high ash content. Volcanic ash consists of tiny jagged particles of rock which can cause engine failure, if sucked into an airplane’s turbines. Source: NASA. Click image to enlarge.
DLR, TerraSAR-X, via Associated Press
A computer enhanced image of Eyjafjallajokull glacier in Iceland acquired by the TerraSAR-X satellite on April 16, 2010 (late PM). Image may be subject to copyright. Click image to enlarge. For the latest Eyjafjallajökull update and links see
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Serial No 1,582. Starting April 2010, each entry on this blog has a unique serial number. If any of the numbers are missing, it may mean that the corresponding entry has been blocked by Google/the authorities in your country. Please drop us a line if you detect any anomaly/missing number(s).
Posted in Eyjafjallajökull, Fimmvörduháls, Iceland volcano, Katla, Laki | Tagged: Eyjafjallajökull eruption, Eyjafjallajökull eruption melts glacier, Eyjafjallajökull glacier, Eyjafjallajökull satellite photos, volcanic ash, volcanic eruption, volcano | 2 Comments »
Posted by feww on April 3, 2010
Serial No 1,532. If any posts are blocked in your country, please drop us a line.
Fimmvörduháls Eruption May be Intensifying – A Second Fissure Has Appeared
A new volcanic fissure has appeared near Eyjafjallajökull in southern Iceland to the northwest of the original fissure on March 31. It may be a sign that the eruption at Fimmvörduháls is intensifying.
A pilot on a sight-seeing flight observed the vent at about 7:00PM on Wednesday (local time). He saw a sudden flash of light followed by a new rift, which opened up immediately after, a report said.
The natural-color satellite image (ALI on NASA’s EO-1) above shows a new fissure at Fimmvörduháls near Eyjafjallajökull ejecting steam. The vent, which appeared on March 31, is located northwest of the original vent. Source: NASA
Map of the Lava flow. Click image to enlarge. Full map including flow data and legend available at Map of the lava flow from 21 - 31 March 2010 (by Eyjólfur Magnússon, pdf file)
Latest and the most spectacular video of the eruption:
Earlier Videos
Technical information:
Webcams – Volcanoes in Iceland
Latest Images (RUV): http://www.ruv.is/flokkar/hamfarir
Related Headline News
Related Sites in Iceland (English)
Fire-Earth Links:
Posted in Eyjafjallajökull, Eyjafjöll, Fimmvörduháls, Hrunagil canyon, Hvannárgil | Tagged: Eyjafjallajökull glacier, Eyjafjöll Eruption, Eyjafjöll update April 3, Fimmvörduháls, iceland volcanoes, volcanism, volcano | 5 Comments »
Posted by feww on January 30, 2010
Global Volcanism is on the rise!
2010 May Prove to Be Year One of Super Volcanic Activities
Fire-Earth Moderators believe the increase in global volcanism could include renewed activities at some of the planet’s super volcanoes.
VolcanoWatch Weekly [28 January 2010]
19 – 26 January 2010 – SI /USGS Weekly Volcanic Activity Report
New activity/Unrest
Volcano News (Source: GVP)
MVO reported that during 15-22 January activity from Soufrière Hills consisted of cycles of vigorous ash venting, rockfalls, and pyroclastic flows. On 18 January, a small lava-dome collapse from the W side of the volcano generated a large pyroclastic flow that traveled 4 km and reached the sea.
IG reported that during 20-26 January explosions from Tungurahua were detected by the seismic network. Ashfall was noted almost daily in areas to the SW and sometimes to the W and NW. During 20-23 January lava fountains and explosions ejected incandescent blocks that fell onto and rolled down the flanks.
Ongoing Activity
Barren Island, Andaman Is; Batu Tara, Komba Island (Indonesia); Chaitén, Southern Chile; Fuego, Guatemala; Gaua, Banks Islands (SW Pacific); Karymsky, Eastern Kamchatka; Kilauea, Hawaii (USA); Kliuchevskoi, Central Kamchatka (Russia); Llaima, Central Chile; Sakura-jima, Kyushu; Santa María, Guatemala; Shiveluch, Central Kamchatka (Russia); Suwanose-jima, Ryukyu Islands (Japan).
Related Links:
More Links:
FEWW Volcanic Activity Forecast
VolcanoWatch Weekly [ previous 4 entries ]
Posted in Chaiten, Global Volcanism, Soufrière Hills, Tungurahua, Volcano News | Tagged: Ambato, ashfall, super volcanoes, volcanism, volcanism report, volcano, volcano ash, Volcano Watch Weekly, volcanoes this week, VolcanoWatch | 5 Comments »
Posted by feww on January 3, 2010
Will Mayon Erupt Again Soon?
Which scenario will Mayon adopt: Chaitén, Kilauea, Galeras, or one with an entirely different pattern?
What seems highly probable—judging by a number of factors including increased tempo and rhythm of volcanism globally—is that Mayon won’t be in repose for very long.
Mayon activity highlights during the past 24 hours:
- Volcano hazard alert down to level 3
- 9 volcanic earthquakes detected
- 30 rockfall events
- No steam emissions
- Summit crater covered by heavy clouds for most of the 24-hr observation period.
- Faint glow at the crater occurred
- Sulfur Dioxide emission rate reported at an average rate of 2,094 tons per day
Mayon Volcano Bulletin 21 released by PHIVOLCS on 3 January 2010
Mayon Volcano’s (13.2576 N, 123.6856 E) seismic monitoring network detected 9 volcanic earthquakes and 30 rockfall events related to the detachment of lava fragments at the volcano’s upper slopes during the past 24- hour observation period. Steaming activity was not observed due to thick clouds that covered the summit crater. Pale crater glow was observed last night. Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) emission rate was measured yesterday morning at an average value of 2,094 tonnes/day.
Alert Level 3 is in effect over Mayon, which means that the 6-km radius Permanent Danger Zone around the volcano and the 7-km Extended Danger Zone on the southeast flank of the volcano should be free from human activity because of sudden explosions that may generate hazardous volcanic flows. People residing close to these danger areas are also advised to observe precautions associated with post-eruption activity, such as rockfalls, pyroclastic flows, and ash fallout which can also occur anytime due to instabilities of lava deposited on steep slopes. Active river channels and those perennially identified as lahar prone in the southern sector should also be avoided especially during bad weather conditions or when there is heavy and prolonged rainfall. Civil aviation authorities must advise pilots to avoid flying close to the volcano’s summit as ejected ash and volcanic fragments from sudden explosions may pose hazards to aircrafts. PHIVOLCS-DOST is closely monitoring Mayon Volcano’s activity and any new significant development will be immediately posted to all concerned.
For previous entries, additional information, photos and links to Mayon Volcano see links below:
Related Links:
Posted in Mayon activity, Mayon alert level, Mayon SO2, Mayon Volcano, Mt Mayon | Tagged: mayon update, Mayon update Jan 3, moon gravity, Philippines volcanoes, volcanic earthquake, volcano | 2 Comments »
Posted by feww on January 2, 2010
Philippines experts out of step with Mayon?
Mayon may be gradually returning to the repose period: Phivolcs
The information coming out of PHIVOLCS and the decisions made by the state volcanologists concerning the volcano’s hazard status are at best inconsistent with the history of Mayon’s eruptive activity.
Highlights from the news, eye-witness accounts, official and unofficial reports on Mayon’s status during the past 24 hours:
- Phivolcs is lowering Mayon’s alert status from level 4 to level 3 [hazardous explosive eruption less likely]
- Volcanic quakes down to 13 events (majority of events associated with rockfalls, and rolling of lava fragments down the mountain)
- No tephratic eruptions for the 3rd day
- Sulfur Dioxide emission rate of 2,621 tons per day up (more than twice the amount previous day), but down from a high of about 9,000 tons.
- Small amount of steam emitted
Mayon Volcano Bulletin 20 released by PHIVOLCS on 2 January 2010
The seismic monitoring network around Mayon Volcano (13.2576 N, 123.6856 E) detected 13 volcanic earthquakes and 68 rockfall events related to the detachment of lava fragments at the volcano’s upper slopes during the past observation period. Emission of weak volume of white steam at the summit crater was observed during cloud breaks yesterday. Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) emission rate was measured yesterday morning at an average value of 2,621 tonnes/day.
The latest activity of Mayon still indicates that its overall state of unrest remains relatively high. However, this phase of unrest, characterized by moderate seismicity, high volcanic gas outputs and continuing glow of the summit are processes normally associated with very gradual return to the repose period. The volcanic system is expected to continue producing earthquakes and to vent a large amount of gases because fresh magma still resides along the whole length of the volcanic pipe and near the summit.
From 28 December to present, a declining trend in Mayon volcano’s activity was noted as reflected by the following observations:
1. No ash ejections were observed since 29 December. Steam emission was most of the time weak and white in color indicating considerable decrease in energy and absence of ash.
2. Majority of the type of earthquakes that were recorded during the past days were associated with rockfalls and rolling down of fragments from the lava deposits along Bonga gully and the advancing lava front.
3. Measured SO2 levels have also showed a decreasing trend from a maximum of 8,993 tons per day to 2,621 tons per day. The still high concentration of SO2 gas emission suggests that there is residual magma degassing at shallow depth.
In view of the above observations, PHIVOLCS-DOST is lowering the alert status of Mayon from Alert Level 4 to Alert Level 3 to reflect the overall gradual decrease of activity. Alert Level 3 means that there is less probability of a hazardous explosive eruption. However, the lowering of the alert level from 4 to 3 should not be interpreted that the unrest of the volcano has ceased. If there is resurgence in the volcano’s activity and the potential for explosive eruptions is perceived to be forthcoming, the alert level may be raised back to 4 but if there is noticeable downward trend in the monitored parameters, then the alert will be further lowered to Alert Level 2.
For previous entries, additional information, photos and links to Mayon Volcano see links below:
Related Links:
Posted in Mayon activity, Mayon Hazard level, Mayon SO2, Mayon Volcano, Mt Mayon | Tagged: mayon lava, mayon update, Mayon update jan 2, moon gravity, Philippines volcanoes, volcanic earthquake, volcano | 1 Comment »
Posted by feww on January 1, 2010
Could Blue Moon Trigger Mayon Explosion?
State vulcanologists believe full moon could trigger Mayon explosion
Resident volcanologists at Phivolcs said a major eruption could occur based on the volcano’s behavior and the the full moon working as triggering mechanism to cause the restive volcano to explode.
According to their theory, the gravitational pull of the full moon as it gets closer to Earth could cause a large increase in the rate of ascent of magma up and out of the volcano.
The Moon glows by light it reflects from the Sun and is frequently the brightest object in the night sky. The Moon orbits the Earth about once a month (moon-th) from about 1 light second away. The above-pictured Full Moon occurs when the Moon is nearly opposite to the Sun in its orbit. Credit: Lick Observatory.
How They Paint the Moon Blue
Most years have twelve full moons occurring monthly; however, each solar calendar year has an additional eleven days compared with the lunar year. The extra days add up to a 13th full moon called a “blue moon” about 7 times in the 19-year Metonic cycle, which translates into one blue moon every two or three years.
Other highlights from the news, eye-witness accounts, official and unofficial reports on Mayon’s status during the past 24 hours:
- 28 volcanic earthquakes recorded
- 91 rockfall events
- Some steam emitted
- Lava still flowing
- SO2 emissions down to daily average of 1,255 tons
- Phivolcs may lower alert level from 4 to 3, if no significant events occur in the next few days
Human Angle:
- A power blackout was enforced in the danger zone around Mt Mayon on Thursday, to discourage residents from returning to their homes.
- The water supply is due to be turned off Friday, as state volcanologists warned that the full moon could trigger a major explosion today.
- A military spokesman said many residents were using “backdoor” routes to return to their homes for the New Year’s festivities.
- About two dozen tourists were reportedly arrested as they entered the danger zone.
- Local police and military have been ordered to carry out house-to-house searches and arrest any residents that might still be in the danger zone.
- Aid organizations are plan to evacuate about 4,000 animals to areas outside Mayon danger zone, ABC said.
Mayon Volcano Bulletin 19 released by PHIVOLCS on 1 January 2010
The seismic monitoring network around the volcano detected 28 volcanic earthquakes and 91 rockfall events related to the detachment of lava fragments at the volcano’s upper slopes during the past 24-hour observation period. No ash explosion was observed. Weak to moderate emission of white steam at the summit crater was seen during cloud breaks from 7:29 AM – 8:30 AM and from 5:25 PM to 5:40 PM yesterday. Flowing lava and intermittent rolling incandescent lava fragments were observed last night. Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) emission rate was measured at an average of 1,255 tons/day.
Alert Level 4 is still being maintained but if no significant events should occur during the next few days, PHIVOLCS-DOST shall consider the possibility of lowering down the alert level from 4 to 3. PHIVOLCS-DOST still strongly reiterates that the Extended Danger Zone (EDZ) from the summit of 8-km on the southern sector of the volcano and 7-km on the northern sector should be free from human activity. Active river channels and those perennially identified as lahar prone in the southern sector should also be avoided especially during bad weather conditions or when there is heavy and prolonged rainfall. In addition, Civil Aviation Authorities must advise pilots to avoid flying close to the volcano’s summit as ejected ash and volcanic fragments from sudden explosions may pose hazards to aircrafts. PHIVOLCS-DOST is closely monitoring Mayon Volcano’s activity and any new significant development will be immediately posted to all concerned.
For previous entries, additional information, photos and links to Mayon Volcano see links below:
Related Links:
Posted in Mayon activity, Mayon SO2, Mayon Volcano, Mt Mayon, Uncategorized | Tagged: Blue Moon, Full moon, Mayon january 2010, mayon lava, mayon update, Metonic cycle, moon gravity, Philippines volcanoes, pyroclastic flows at mayon, volcanic earthquake, volcano | 3 Comments »
Posted by feww on December 31, 2009
Mayon Pipes Down, for Now
The Contrast: “Disaster Tourism” Booms as Boredom Sets in Among the Evacuees!
Lava flow from the crater of Mayon volcano as viewed from Lignon Hill in Legazpi city, Albay province, December 30, 2009. Credit: Bullit Marquez/ AP. Image may be subject to copyright.
Highlights of news, observations, official and unofficial reports:
- Thick clouds covered the volcano summit affecting visibility
- No ash explosion during times of good visibility
- Steam and ash spewed from volcano
- 60 volcanic earthquakes recorded
- 267 rock fall events reported
- SO2 emissions rate down to 1,158 tonnes per day
- volcano edifice remains inflated
- Volcano hazard alert remained at Level 4 (explosive eruption could be imminent)
Other Headlines:
- Seismic activity increasing in Mindanao, Philippines, with several several quakes measuring 5.0 to 5.7Mw reported in the region.
- At least two quakes measuring 5.2 and 5.6 Mw struck near Leyte, Philippines in the past 24 hrs.
Human Angle:
Albay Governor Joey Salceda ordered the electricity and water supplies to be cit off to properties within the extended and permanent danger zones near Mayon Volcano yesterday, the Manila Bulletin reported.
Salceda said he wanted to discourage people from entering their homes withing the danger zone, after reports that many evacuees had returned to their homes for the New Year.
“Legally, there should be no people within the declared danger zones because of the provincial ordinance of the implementation of a 24-hour curfew. It is on this premise that I ordered that electricity and water supplies should be cut off,” he added.
“By Thursday afternoon (December 31), Salceda said he is also expecting the security forces to cut off the roads leading to all affected barangays in the cities of Tabaco, Legazpi and Ligao and the towns of Guinobatan, Camalig, Daraga, Malilipot and Sto. Domingo.” Manila Bulletin reported
“All the hotels are fully booked, even the cheapest ones,” Salceda told reporters.
The Contrast: “Disaster Tourism” Booms as Boredom Sets in Among the Evacuees!
As the hotels in the Albay Province are filled to capacity with overenthusiastic, “disaster tourism” visitors, boredom sets in among the evacuees. AP Photo/Mike Alquinto. Image may be subject to copyright.
Mayon Volcano Bulletin 18 released on 31 December 2009
For the past 24 hours, Mayon Volcano’s (13.2576 N, 123.6856 E) activity was characterized by extrusion of lava and rolling down of incandescent lava fragments along the Bonga gully. The summit of the volcano was obscured most of the time yesterday due to thick cloud cover. No ash explosion was observed during times of good visibility. Emission of very weak to moderate volume of white steam that drifted towards west- southwest was observed during clear views of the crater.
Seismic monitoring revealed the occurrence of 60 volcanic earthquakes. A total of 267 rock fall events related to the detachment of lava fragments at the volcano’s upper slopes was also detected by the seismic network. Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) emission rate measurements yesterday yielded an average value of 1,158 tonnes per day (t/d). The volcano edifice remains inflated as indicated by the electronic tilt meter installed at the northeast sector of the volcano.
The status of Mayon Volcano is maintained at Alert Level 4. PHIVOLCS-DOST reiterates that the Extended Danger Zone (EDZ) from the summit of 8-km on the southern sector of the volcano and 7-km on the northern sector should be free from human activity. Areas just outside of this EDZ should prepare for evacuation in the event hazardous eruptions intensify. Active river channels and those perennially identified as lahar prone in the southern sector should also be avoided especially during bad weather conditions or when there is heavy and prolonged rainfall. In addition, Civil Aviation Authorities must advise pilots to avoid flying close to the volcano’s summit as ejected ash and volcanic fragments from sudden explosions may pose hazards to aircrafts. PHIVOLCS–DOST is closely monitoring Mayon Volcano’s activity and any new significant development will be immediately posted to all concerned.
For previous entries, additional information, photos and links to Mayon Volcano see links below:
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Posted by feww on December 30, 2009
Mayon Calmer, But it Could Be the Lull Before the Storm
It would be very helpful if PHIVOLCS released more detailed information on Mayon status!
Highlights of news, observations, official and unofficial reports:
- Minor ash explosions down to one
- Tephra ejected to a height of 100 meters above the summit
- Continuous lava flow down Bonga-Buyuan, Miisi and Lidong gullies
- Lava front traveled an additional 100 meters to a distance of 5.9 km from th esummit
- 16 volcanic earthquakes recorded
- 150 rockfall events caused by lava fragments detaching from the upper slopes
- SO2 emission rate of 4,397 tons per day almost a third higher than the previous day
- The edifice remains inflated
The Human Angle
- About 50,000 people are still crammed in 29 evacuation centers in the country’s eastern province of Albay.
- Local schools are doubling as makeshift evacuation centers.
- The evacuees may have to spend several months in the centers.
- But schools are supposed to open after New Year holidays.
- Water and sanitation facilities are in critically short supply, UNICEF said.
- Evacuees have been advised to protect their children from Mayon’s fine ash, because it could worsen asthma, bronchitis and respiratory-related illnesses; however, face masks are reportedly in short supply.
- At least four people have died in the evacuation centers so far. A 3-year-old from an unspecified infection and three elderly people from heart attacks, health officials have revealed.
- Crowding and cramp conditions have already led to widespread skin diseases and respiratory illnesses throughout the 29 shelters.
- Food isn’t in short supply, but there’s a shortage of items such as nappies for babies and sanitary towels for women, according to a local news bulletin.
- “The evacuees face the grim prospect of being away from home for several more weeks—local disaster officials said the worst case is six more months since Mayon Volcano remains under Alert Level 4 indicating imminent eruption.” The report said.
- An elected official of Legazpi City, Councilor Celoy Chan, has been “renting his All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) to foreign tourists [in direct contravention of the emergency laws] and even escorting them for a trip right near the lava front of the Mayon volcano.” A news report said.
- Evacuees in Legazpi City and Tabaco City shelters are being “shortchanged.” That is, they are only receiving half the amount of relief goods, especially rice, allocated to them. Every family is allocated 5 kilograms of rice daily but they only receive 2 ½ to 3kgs, according to another report.
- Province of Albay officials say about 2,500 tourists per day are flocking into the region to see Mayon activity, a rise of about 15 folds since the volcano became restive on December 14.
The following Bulletin was released by The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) today:
Mayon Volcano Bulletin 17 released on 30 December 2009
For the past 24 hours, one ash explosion occurred at Mayon Volcano (13.2576 N, 123.6856 E). The explosion produced a dirty white ash column that rose to about 100 meters above the summit and drifted to the northwest. Lava continued to flow down along the Bonga-Buyuan, Miisi and Lidong gullies. The lava front has now reached about 5.9 kilometers from the summit along the Bonga-Buyuan gully.
Mayon Volcano’s seismic network recorded 16 volcanic earthquakes. A total of 150 rock fall events related to the detachment of lava fragments at the volcano’s upper slopes was also detected by the seismic network. Yesterday’s measurement of Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) rate yielded an average value of 4,397 tonnes per day (t/d). The volcano edifice remains inflated as indicated by the electronic tilt meter installed at the northeast sector of the volcano.
The status of Mayon Volcano is maintained at Alert Level 4. PHIVOLCS-DOST reiterates that the Extended Danger Zone (EDZ) from the summit of 8-km on the southern sector of the volcano and 7-km on the northern sector should be free from human activity. Areas just outside of this EDZ should prepare for evacuation in the event hazardous eruptions intensify. Active river channels and those perennially identified as lahar prone in the southern sector should also be avoided especially during bad weather conditions or when there is heavy and prolonged rainfall. In addition, Civil Aviation Authorities must advise pilots to avoid flying close to the volcano’s summit as ejected ash and volcanic fragments from sudden explosions may pose hazards to aircrafts. PHIVOLCS–DOST is closely monitoring Mayon Volcano’s activity and any new significant development will be immediately posted to all concerned.
For previous entries, additional information, photos and links to Mayon Volcano see links below:
Related Links:
Posted in Mayon activity, Mayon SO2, Mayon Volcano, Mt Mayon, Philippines volcanoes | Tagged: mayon ash explosion, Mayon december 30, mayon lava, Mayon tephra, mayon update, pyroclastic flows at mayon, tephra explosion, volcanic earthquake, volcano | 1 Comment »
Posted by feww on December 29, 2009
The Raging Lava Mill
Mayon Continues to Spew Lava and Eject Tephra
Lave spews out of Mt Mayon. Dated 27 December 27, 2009. Credit: Erik de Castro, Reuters. Image may be subject to copyright.
Highlights of news, observations, official and unofficial reports:
- 9 minor explosions during the past 24-hr observation period
- Explosions ejected tephra to a height of 2km above the summit
- Seismic activity high with 38 tremors recorded
- 171 incidents of rock fall reported as lava fragments detached from Mayon’s upper slopes
- Sulfur dioxide emission rate at 3,416 ton, almost unchanged from the previous day
- Fresh lava flowed along the Bonga-Buyuan, Miisi and Lidong gullies
- Lava advanced by an additional 100 meters to 5.8km from the summit crater
- Officials have declared the area a no-fly zone
- Tourists are strictly prohibited from entering the danger zone
- Pilots are advised to avoid flying close to the volcano’s summit to prevent probable damage to aircraft caused by the ejected tephra.
The following Bulletin was released by The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) today:
Mayon Volcano Bulletin 16 released on 29 December 2009
Mayon Volcano (13.2576 N, 123.6856 E) continued to be restive and exhibited 9 ash explosions during the past 24 hours. The explosions produced dirty white to light brown ash columns that rose to a maximum height of about 2000 meters above the summit before drifting towards the west and southwest.
Seismic activity remained at high level as a total of 38 volcanic earthquakes and 171 rock fall events related to the detachment of lava fragments at the volcano’s upper slopes was detected by the seismic network. Measurements of sulfur dioxide emission rate conducted yesterday yielded an average value of 3,416 tonnes per day (t/d).
Red hot lava continued to flow down along the Bonga-Buyuan, Miisi and Lidong gullies. At present, the lava front at Buyuan channel is approximately 5.8 kilometers downslope from the summit crater. From time to time, rolling down of incandescent lava fragments coming from the crater was observed.
The status of Mayon Volcano is maintained at Alert Level 4. PHIVOLCS-DOST reiterates that the Extended Danger Zone (EDZ) from the summit of 8-km on the southern sector of the volcano and 7-km on the northern sector should be free from human activity. Areas just outside of this EDZ should prepare for evacuation in the event hazardous eruptions intensify. Active river channels and those perennially identified as lahar prone in the southern sector should also be avoided especially during bad weather conditions or when there is heavy and prolonged rainfall. In addition, Civil Aviation Authorities must advise pilots to avoid flying close to the volcano’s summit as ejected ash and volcanic fragments from sudden explosions may pose hazards to aircrafts. PHIVOLCS–DOST is closely monitoring Mayon Volcano’s activity and any new significant development will be immediately posted to all concerned.
For previous entries, additional information, photos and links to Mayon Volcano see links below:
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Posted in Mayon activity, Mayon SO2, Mayon Volcano, Mt Mayon, Philippines volcanoes | Tagged: Mayon 28 December, mayon seismic activity, Mayon tephra, pyroclastic flows at mayon, tephra explosion, volcano | 1 Comment »
Posted by feww on December 28, 2009
Mayon activity remains intense
Clouds partially cover Mayon volcano, as it ejects tephra in Legazpi City, Albay province December 28, 2009. (Xinhua/Reuters Photo). Image may be subject to copyright.
Highlights of news, observations, official and unofficial reports:
- Mayon activity remains intense
- The lava flowed about 5.7 km from the summit crater, nearing coconut plantations in the area
- 7 tephra explosions
- Tephra ejected to a height of about 2km above the summit
- 44 volcanic earthquakes
- 137 rock fall events
- Fresh lava continues to flow down the Bonga-Buyuan, Miisi and Lidong gullies.
- Sulfur dioxide emission rate reached 4,329 ton per day almost double the amount previous day.
- Volcanic Hazard warning remains at level 4, which means an explosive eruption could occur anytime.
- About 50,000 people are staying at 30 evacuation centers.
- The authorities said they were setting up an epidemiology surveillance unit at the provincial health headquarters.
- Local government said it discouraged “disaster tourism” in the light of tourists from the US, Europe and Asia flocking to the Albay province where Mt Mayon is located.
- A group of tourists who tried to venture into the 8-kilometer danger zone were ejected by the military at one of the nine checkpoints set up within the area.
The following Bulletin was released by The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) today:
Mayon Volcano Bulletin 15 released on 28 December 2009
For the past 24 hours, Mayon Volcano’s (13.2576 N, 123.6856 E) intense level of unrest persisted. Seven ash explosions were observed during times of good visibility. The explosions produced dirty white to light gray ash columns that rose to a maximum height of about 2000 meters above the summit before drifting towards the southwest.
A total of 44 volcanic earthquakes and 137 rock fall events related to the detachment of lava fragments at the volcano’s upper slopes was detected by the seismic network. Red hot lava continuously flowed down along the Bonga-Buyuan, Miisi and Lidong gullies. Intermittent rolling of incandescent lava fragments were also observed. Yesterday’s measurement of
Alert Level 4 remains hoisted over Mayon Volcano. PHIVOLCS-DOST reiterates that the Extended Danger Zone (EDZ) from the summit of 8-km on the southern sector of the volcano and 7-km on the northern sector should be free from human activity. Areas just outside of this EDZ should prepare for evacuation in the event hazardous eruptions intensify. Active river channels and those perennially identified as lahar prone in the southern sector should also be avoided especially during bad weather conditions or when there is heavy and prolonged rainfall. PHIVOLCS–DOST is closely monitoring Mayon Volcano’s activity and any new significant development will be immediately posted to all concerned.
For previous entries, additional information, photos and links to Mayon Volcano see links below:
Related Links:
Posted in Mayon activity, Mayon Volcano, Mt Mayon, Philippines volcanoes, SO2 emissions at mayon | Tagged: Mayon 28 December, mayon seismic activity, Mayon tephra, pyroclastic flows at mayon, volcano | 1 Comment »
