Philippines - Updates on Bulusan Volcano

Bulusan Volcano’s seismic monitoring network recorded two (2) volcanic earthquakes during the past 24 hours. Weak emission of white steam-laden plumes that rose 50 meters from the active vents and drifted southwest was observed. Ground deformation from Precise Leveling obtained on February 19 - March 01, 2018 indicated a slight deflation of the edifice. Nonetheless, inflation of the mid-slopes since 2017, while overall deflation of the rest of the edifice, were recorded by Bulusan’s continuous GPS network. Alert Level 1 (abnormal) status remains in effect over Bulusan Volcano, which means that it is currently in a state of unrest probably driven by hydrothermal processes that could generate steam driven or phreatic eruptions. Local government units and the public are reminded that entry into the 4-kilometer radius Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) is strictly prohibited and that vigilance in the Extended Danger Zone (EDZ) must be exercised due to the increased possibilities of sudden and hazardous phreatic eruptions. Civil aviation authorities must also advise pilots to avoid flying close to the volcano’s summit as ash from any sudden phreatic eruption can be hazardous to aircraft. Furthermore, people living within valleys and along river/stream channels especially on the southeast, southwest and northwest sector of the edifice should be vigilant against sediment-laden stream flows and lahars in the event of heavy and prolonged rainfall. DOST-PHIVOLCS is closely monitoring Bulusan Volcano’s condition and any new development will be communicated to all concerned stakeholders.