Bicol Prepares for Lahar Threat as Mayon Volcano Faces Heavy Rainfall Ahead

As the Bicol region braces for potential lahars in the wake of heavy rainfall forecasts, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Bicol is taking decisive steps to safeguard local communities. With the threat stemming from Mayon Volcano, officials are well aware of the historical dangers posed by lahar flows, particularly when significant rainfall occurs. Director Claudio Yucot of OCD Bicol has underscored the urgency of the situation. “We are on constant alert regarding the lahar situation around Mayon Volcano,” he emphasized, noting that experts have indicated the potential for mobilizing lahar deposits from previous eruptions when rainfall reaches as little as 60mm per hour. Such conditions are particularly concerning, as lahars can lead to devastating consequences for nearby towns and villages. In preparation for the impending rainfall, rain gauges installed by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), and local government units (LGUs) are on high alert. Evacuation protocols are set to be implemented once rainfall hits the threshold of 40-50mm per hour, a precaution that reflects the seriousness of the situation. The proactive stance of OCD Bicol aligns with a recent advisory from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), which has alerted local officials to the dangers posed by lahars following intense rainfall. This advisory not only pertains to communities in proximity to Mayon Volcano but also extends to regions near Kanlaon Volcano, highlighting a broader regional vulnerability to similar hazards. Meteorological predictions indicate that southeastern Luzon, including Bicol, could experience moderate to heavy rainfall in the coming days. The current weather patterns, influenced by the shear line and the remnants of Tropical Depression Querubin, raise the likelihood of volcanic sediment flows, particularly impacting river channels around Mayon Volcano. As communities prepare for possible evacuations, local officials and residents are urged to stay informed and heed safety advisories. The risks associated with lahar flows are not to be taken lightly, and collective vigilance will be crucial in navigating the challenges posed by the impending weather conditions. As the region remains on alert, the importance of community preparedness and responsive governance will be instrumental in ensuring the safety and well-being of those living in the shadow of Mayon Volcano.