BULUSAN VOLCANO ADVISORY

7 October 2022

03:00 P.M. 

This is a notice of an increase in activity of Bulusan Volcano. A total of twenty-nine (29) volcanic earthquakes were recorded since 5AM of 6 October 2022 by the Bulusan Volcano Network or BVN. Ground deformation data from continuous GPS measurements and radial tilt indicate a short-term inflation of the general southern edifice of Bulusan Volcano since April 2022. Furthermore, 279 tonnes per day of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) emission was measured last 29 September 2022. And weak to moderate emission of white steam-laden plumes could be observed at the crater while very weak emission of the white-steam laden plumes could be observed at northwest vents. The increased seismic activity and short-term ground deformation are likely caused by shallow hydrothermal processes beneath the edifice.

Alert Level 0 (Normal) is maintained over Bulusan Volcano but is subject to change should current activity persist. Since hydrothermal processes are underway beneath the volcano, there are increased chances of steam-driven or phreatic eruptions from its active vents. Local government units and the public are reminded that entry into the 4-kilometer radius Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) should be prohibited. 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. DOSTPHIVOLCS is closely monitoring Bulusan Volcano’s condition and any new development will be communicated to all concerned stakeholders.

DOST-PHIVOLCS