Mayon volcano erupts in Philippines, thousands evacuated

The Mayon volcano in the southeastern part of Luzon Island in the Philippines has become active, forcing thousands of residents to evacuate from danger zones, Bloomberg reports.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) has raised the alert level to 3 on a five-point scale. Experts have warned of risks of lava flows and landslides.

According to Manila Bulletin, nearly 1,500 families—more than 5,000 people—are currently staying in evacuation centers.

Authorities have imposed a permanent danger zone within a six-kilometer radius of the crater. 

Residents within an eight-kilometer radius have been advised to remain vigilant and prepare for possible emergency evacuation if volcanic activity intensifies or the alert level is raised to level 4.

By Jeyhun Aghazada