Ashfall from Bulusan Volcano covered plants and houses in Sorsogon.
June 12, 2022
ASHFALL
Volcanic ash consists of fine rock particles ejected by a volcano into the atmosphere. Due to its fine nature, it poses risks to humans and animals, damages airplanes, affects electronic devices and machinery, and disrupts essential services such as electricity, water, and communication.
More InformationHARMFUL EFFECTS OF ASHFALL ON HUMANS
1. Eye, nose, and throat irritation.
2. Coughing and difficulty breathing.
3. Skin irritation.
4. Accidents due to slippery roads.
HAZARDS TO THE ENVIRONMENT AND AGRICULTURE
Crop Damage - Volcanic ash can cover plants, disrupt photosynthesis,
and alter soil pH levels, slowing plant growth.
Water Contamination - Ash can reach rivers, lakes, and water reservoirs, making it unsafe for drinking and irrigation.
REASONS WHY ASHFALL OCCURS
POWERFUL ERUPTION
A volcanic eruption is the primary reason for the release of ash high into the sky.
WIND DISPERSION
The wind carries ash to different locations, causing it to fall in various areas.
SECONDARY ASHFALL
After the initial eruption, strong winds or other disturbances can lift the ash again, increasing the hazard.
Kanlaon Volcano
Photo taken from https://apnews.com/article/philippines-volcano-erupts-emergency-evactuations-e334235a4039a6610a3c59d4027c3711
Talisay Batangas
Photo taken from https://www.onenews.ph/articles/the-hazards-of-volcanic-ash-being-rock-and-natural-glass-particles#google_vignette
Juban Sorsogon
Photo taken from https://www.facebook.com/share/18Zof6TVpN/
LATEST NEWS
Juban, Sorsogon
Juban, Sorsogon
Bulusan Volcano eruption caused ashfall and led to evacuations.
March 10, 2025
Juban, Sorsogon
Residents of Juban, Sorsogon, start cleaning the roofs of their houses.
June 12, 2022
Sorsogon Town
Robredo's office sent aid to the town in Sorsogon affected by ashfall.
June 6, 2022
Classes in Sorsogon will shift online if Bulusan Volcano erupts.
January 16, 2024
PREPARING FOR ASHFALL
01 Listen to the radio to stay updated on warnings from authorities.
Monitor advisories to know if evacuation is necessary or if you need to prepare for ashfall.
02 Prepare an emergency supply kit.
Include food, water, a flashlight, a battery-powered radio, extra batteries, medicine, and important documents.
03 Prepare a dust mask or a clean cloth to cover your nose and goggles to protect your eyes.
Use an N95 mask or a damp cloth to avoid inhaling volcanic ash.
04 Get cleaning supplies ready.
Prepare a broom, shovel, vacuum cleaner with an extra bag, and a filter for proper ash cleanup.
05 Stock up on fuel and ensure your vehicle is in good condition.
Roads may become impassable, so make sure you have enough fuel and an emergency supply in your vehicle.
06 Prepare food and water for pets.
Ensure your pets have enough food and water, especially in case of evacuation.
07 Identify safe evacuation areas.
Have a plan on where to evacuate if the ashfall situation worsens.
08 Know the emergency plan at your child's school.
Ensure children know the evacuation area and how they can reunite with their family during an emergency.
09 Prepare activities to keep children occupied at evacuation centers.
Bring books, toys, or other activities to help children stay engaged and cope with the emergency situation.
THINGS TO DO DURING AN ASHFALL
01 Stay calm and remain indoors. Cover your nose and mouth with a wet, clean cloth or a dust mask.
Ensure proper protection when breathing to avoid the harmful effects of volcanic ash on your lungs.
02 Close all doors and windows to prevent ash from entering your home.
Use damp cloths or towels to seal gaps and keep ash from getting inside.
03 Place a wet towel or cloth over door openings and other gaps.
This helps block ash from being inhaled, which can be harmful to your respiratory system.
04 Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating.
Ensure that food is free from volcanic ash to avoid health issues.
05 Listen to the radio for the latest updates on the volcanic eruption.
Stay informed with official advisories to follow the proper safety measures.
06 Keep pets indoors or inside their shelter to prevent them from inhaling ash.
Make sure animals have proper protection, as well as access to clean food and water.
07 If driving, pull over if heavy ashfall reduces visibility.
Avoid unnecessary travel, as volcanic ash can damage your vehicle’s engine.
08 If outside, seek shelter immediately and wear protective eyewear. Avoid using contact lenses.
Volcanic ash can irritate the eyes, so it is best to use protective glasses.
09 Cover water storage and food supplies to prevent contamination from ash.
Ensure that drinking water and food remain safe and free from volcanic ash.
THINGS TO DO AFTER ASHFALL
01 Once the ashfall has stopped, remove accumulated ash from the roof to prevent sudden collapse.
Heavy ash on the roof can cause damage. Remove it using the appropriate tools and take precautions to avoid inhaling the ash.
02 Wash plants before feeding them to animals.
Ash may contain harmful chemicals that can be dangerous for animals. Ensure their food is clean.
03 Filter water before drinking.
Make sure the drinking water is clean and free from ash contamination to prevent illnesses.
04 After removing the ash, clean the roof and gutters to prevent clogging and decay.
Cleaning the roof and gutters is essential to avoid water buildup or damage.
05 Remove ash from windows and doors of houses and vehicles.
Ash can damage household items and cause breathing problems. Use a mask to cover your nose and mouth.
06 Use powdered detergent when washing ash-covered clothes.
Powdered detergent is more effective in removing ash from clothes.
07 Use a vacuum cleaner or wipe surfaces to remove ash. Cover your nose and mouth while cleaning.
Take precautions while cleaning to avoid inhaling ash, which can be harmful to the lungs.