Location : Philippines, Sorsogon Province, Southern Luzon
Covering period: 06 to 10 November 2010
Date of transmission: 10 November, 2010
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General Information
On 06 November 2010, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) registered increased activity of the Bulusan Volcano, located at the province of Sorsogon. Alert level 1 has been raised since then. On November 9, there were two volcanic earthquakes prior to the observed two episodes of ash ejections, reaching a maximum altitude of 1000m above the crater. The ash explosions are typical of the volcano's activity during its restive period but more explosions are expected in the next days.
Mild to moderate white steam emissions are observed from the volcano. Ash falls towards the southwest and north - southwest directions were reported, affecting 14 barangays from three municipalities (Casiguran, Juban, and Magallanes), with traces reaching Irosin. Sulfur Dioxide emission rate measured yesterday showed a yield of 168 tonnes per day.
Thus, the 4 km permanent danger zone is observed. Residents near valleys and streams and advised against sediment - laden stream flows in the event of heavy rains and continuous rainfall. Communities within the reach of ash falls are also advised of the appropriate precautions.
As of today, there is one evacuation center, housing six families (36 individuals).
Communication and road networks remain functional.
Health Impact
There are no reports of increased occurrence of respiratory complaints nor incidents of burns.
Department of Health Response
DOH - HEMS is monitoring the situation, coordinating with PHIVOLCS and CHD V for possible response action. CHD V also sent assorted medicines worth Php 16, 122.70 to the provincial health team. Respective Municipal Health Offices of affected municipalities have been alerted.
WHO Response
WRPHL Emergency and Humanitarian Action is keeping close watch on the local activity. Communication and coordination with DOH - HEMS is ongoing.
Sources
Department of Health - Health Emergency Management Staff [DOH - HEMS], San Lazaro Compound, Sta Cruz, Manila.
National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council [NDRRMC], Bulusan Volcano Bulletin, 06 to 09 November 2010
Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology [PHIVOLCS], Bulusan Volcano Update, 10 November 2010, 8:00 am
For further information please contact:
Dr Katherine Ann S. Villegas
Emergency and Humanitarian Action
Office of the WHO Representative in the Philippines
email: villegask@wpro.who.int