Wednesday, August 1, 2007

Mount Bulusan in Paradise Philippines erupts


Known for its sudden steam-driven or phreatic explosions, Mount Bulusan erupted again after a few months of being restive.

An ash explosion occurred at Bulusan Volcano (12˚ 46.2’N 124˚ 03’E) at 09:37 AM today. The activity was accompanied by rumbling sounds and was reflected as an explosion type earthquake, which lasted for about 20 minutes. The eruption column reached a maximum height of five (5) kilometers before drifting west-southwest and west-northwest according to Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).

Mount Bulusan is fourth most active of the country’s 22 active volcanoes. The three other most active volcanoes are Mayon in Albay province, Taal in Batangas province and Kanlaon on Negros Island. Many moderate explosive eruptions have been recorded at Bulusan since the mid-19th century.

Alert Level 1 remains in effect over the volcano and villagers are reminded not to enter the 4-kilometer radius Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) because the area is at risk from sudden steam/ash explosions.

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