The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) has raised the alert level in the area around Mayon Volcano to level 4, saying that an eruption in a few days is imminent.

An alert level of 5, the highest in Phivolcs 5-point scale, would mean that an eruption is in progress.

Phivolcs raised the alert level after low-frequency seismic quakes were registered in the area surrounding the volcano. An alert level 3 was issued last December 15. Authorities have also extended the volcano’s danger zones to an eight-kilometer radius on its southern region, and a seven-kilometer radius on the north.

Phivolcs shares that they have registered approximately 222 volcanic quakes, one of which produced a grayish vertical ash column from its crater that extended about half a kilometer above its peak. Phivolcs also reports that emission of sulfur dioxide, another sign of an eruption, has increased dramatically.

The military has announced that they will also tighten the controls in the surrounding areas, making sure that no one is left in the danger zones, and that no one will be allowed in. Some reluctant residents, concerned over the well being of their home, property and farmlands, are reportedly trying to sneak into the area.

Mayon Volcano, which is located in Albay, Philippines, is world-famous for its near-perfect cone shape. Its most destructive eruption in history occurred in February 1, 1814, where about 1200 individuals died from the lava and ashfall.

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