Molten Lava Rock Descending Mayon Volcano in the Philippines (Jan 7, 2026)

This timelapse documents incandescent molten lava rock descending the upper slopes of Mayon Volcano on January 7, 2026, during a phase of heightened volcanic unrest driven by summit lava dome growth and instability.

According to monitoring information from the DOST-PHIVOLCS, periods of lava dome extrusion at Mayon are commonly accompanied by frequent rockfall events, as unstable, newly extruded lava collapses and moves downslope under gravity. These rockfalls often remain incandescent, indicating high-temperature material sourced directly from the summit dome.

PHIVOLCS has noted that such activity reflects ongoing shallow magma extrusion, typically involving degassed magma, and serves as an important indicator of effusive eruptive behavior. While rockfalls themselves are relatively common at Mayon during these phases, they may increase in frequency or volume as dome growth accelerates and can sometimes evolve into more hazardous phenomena, including pyroclastic density currents (PDCs) if larger portions of the dome collapse.

The timelapse format highlights the persistent, gravity-driven movement of molten material, making gradual processes—such as changes in flow paths and intensity—more visible than in real-time footage.

⚠️ Safety Notice
PHIVOLCS advises strict compliance with designated danger zones around Mayon Volcano due to ongoing hazards including rockfalls, lava flows, PDCs (uson), ashfall, and possible explosive activity. Conditions can change rapidly, and official bulletins should always be used for risk assessment and decision-making.

This video is presented for documentation, education, and scientific observation. For official updates and hazard information, refer to PHIVOLCS and local authorities.