Extreme Conditions

Philippine volcano eruption imminent

(08 August 2006)

Increased volcanic activity at Mount Mayon in the Philippines has led to the evacuation of tens of thousands of people.

Six volcanic blasts occurred within 40 minutes on Monday, followed by three further blasts overnight.

Mount Mayon, in Albay province, is the Philippines' most active volcano. Lava began to flow in mid-July.

The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office is advising travellers to avoid the area around Mount Mayon, as well as around Bulusan volcano in Sorsogon province, which has also seen increased activity.