The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) issued a lahar advisory for communities near the Mayon, Pinatubo and Taal volcanoes on Friday evening amid the anticipated landfall of Typhoon ‘Pepito,’ which threatens the Southern Luzon and Bicol regions this weekend.
The latest tropical cyclone is expected to make landfall between November 16 and 17. It could bring intense to torrential rainfall that may trigger volcanic sediment flows and muddy runoffs in these areas, according to Phivolcs.
For Mayon Volcano in Albay, heavy rains could mobilize loose materials from its 2018 eruption, leading to lahars along channels such as Miisi, Binaan, Anoling, Quirangay, Maninila, Masarawag, Muladbucad, Nasisi, Mabinit, Matanag, Basud and Bulawan.
Phivolcs said communities downstream risk inundation, burial, and significant damage.
In Zambales, rivers draining Mount Pinatubo, including the Sto. Tomas-Marella and Bucao systems, may experience channel-confined lahars, potentially affecting nearby towns like San Marcelino, San Narciso, San Felipe, and Botolan.
Meanwhile, Tarlac and Pampanga provinces face threats from muddy streamflows along the O’Donnell and Pasig-Potrero rivers.
Around Taal Volcano in Batangas, saturated slopes from previous rains could generate debris flows and muddy runoff, endangering areas like Agoncillo, Laurel, and Talisay.
Phivolcs urges affected communities to remain vigilant and follow preemptive measures to ensure safety. Residents are advised to monitor typhoon updates and heed evacuation orders from local authorities.
Typhoon ‘Pepito’ underscored the dual risks posed by severe weather and volcanic hazards, with Phivolcs emphasizing the need for heightened readiness in areas prone to these compound threats.
