Mayon Volcano Ashfall Forces Mass Evacuation of Over 300 Families in Philippines

More than 300 families were displaced after ashfall from the Mayon Volcano blanketed several communities over the weekend, following a sudden collapse of lava deposits on its slopes. Authorities said the incident occurred before dusk on Saturday, sending thick clouds of ash across nearby areas and prompting evacuations as a precautionary measure.

According to Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology director Teresito Bacolcol, the ashfall was triggered by a pyroclastic flow—an avalanche of hot rocks, ash, and gas—after built-up lava on the volcano’s southwestern slope gave way. Officials clarified that no explosive eruption took place, although Mayon has been exhibiting intermittent activity since January.

No casualties or injuries were reported, but the ash spread across at least 87 villages in three towns, significantly affecting daily life. Roads were rendered hazardous due to near-zero visibility, forcing motorists to slow down or halt travel altogether. Residents in affected areas described the ashfall as sudden and intense, with many caught unprepared.

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Caloy Baldo, mayor of Camalig town located near the volcano’s foothills, said the ashfall disrupted normal activity and caused panic among some villagers. He noted that authorities quickly advised residents to remain calm and coordinated evacuation efforts where necessary. Cleanup operations have since begun in the town, which has a population of around 8,000.

The ashfall also impacted local agriculture, damaging vegetable farms and resulting in the deaths of several livestock, including four water buffaloes and one cow. Officials continue to monitor the situation closely, warning that while conditions have stabilized for now, the risk remains due to the volcano’s ongoing activity.

Standing at 2,462 metres, Mayon Volcano is renowned for its near-perfect cone shape and is a major tourist attraction in the Philippines. However, it is also the country’s most active volcano, making surrounding communities particularly vulnerable to sudden volcanic events such as ashfall and pyroclastic flows.

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