Philippines: 66 volcanic earthquakes recorded in 24hrs as Bulusan Volcano blows off steam — again

Manila: Bulusan Volcano put on another fiery show Tuesday night, erupting for over an hour — but authorities say there’s no need to panic just yet.

According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), the eruption started at 7:43 pm and lasted until 9 pm, with the plume likely blowing southwest, although it was hidden by clouds. 

The volcanic ash cloud reached an estimated 70 metres high.

Earlier on Tuesday, the volcano also let out a six-minute blast of ash from 5:21am to 5:27am, said Phivolcs Director Teresito Bacolcol.

Rumbling sounds were heard in nearby villages in Sorsogon province, specifically in Barangays Cogon and Bagsangan in Irosin, during the nighttime activity. 

Ashfall blanketed several areas in Sorsogon, including:

Despite the twin eruptions, Bulusan remains under Alert Level 1, which means low-level unrest — but with a chance of more phreatic (steam-driven) eruptions.

In the past 24 hours, the volcano recorded 66 volcanic earthquakes, including six tremors that lasted anywhere from 2 to 12 minutes. 

Sulfur dioxide emissions

Sulfur dioxide emissions were measured at 548 tonnes per day, well above the usual baseline of under 200 tonnes.

Phivolcs reminds everyone that the 4-km Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) is strictly off-limits. 

Caution is also advised in the 2-kilometer Extended Danger Zone (EDZ) on the southeast side due to potential volcanic hazards like ashfall, rockfalls, pyroclastic flows, and even avalanches.

Masks advised

Residents in ashfall-affected areas are urged to wear masks or use damp cloths to avoid inhaling ash, especially those with health conditions, seniors, expectant mothers, and infants.

Communities near valleys and rivers, especially on the volcano's western side, should stay alert for possible lahars or muddy volcanic flows if heavy rains follow an eruption.

Pilots told: Avoid flying near summit

As for pilots, Phivolcs has a clear warning: stay away from the summit. 

Volcanic ash can be highly dangerous to aircraft engines.

For now, Bulusan is reminding everyone why it’s one of the Philippines’ most closely watched volcanoes.