Warning for villagers near Philippines Bulusan volcano

The Bulusan volcano in the central Philippines has ejected ash and steam in its third explosion since it became active on the weekend.

The ash explosion reached 500 meters in the air and drifted over northwestern and southwestern towns surrounding the volcano.

State vulcanologists have warned villagers living near river channels and slopes of Bulusan volcano in the central province of Sorsogon of the threat of lahar flows.

It has been raining over Bulusan volcano and surrounding areas since yesterday.

Lahar flows are created when water mixes with pyroclastic materials and rocky debris from the volcano.

Residents of the towns of Irosin, Juban and Casiguran at the slopes of the volcano have been warned particularly of lahar flows and ashfall.

At least 34 families living within the four kilometer permanent danger zone.