The Philippines is facing a fresh natural hazard as tropical storm Nokaen threatens to trigger lahars near Mayon Volcano. The storm is expected to bring heavy rainfall to southern Luzon, raising concerns of muddy volcanic flows in areas already impacted by volcanic unrest. Authorities have urged residents to remain alert and follow safety advisories closely.
Why in News?
Tropical storm Nokaen is moving near Luzon in the Philippines. Authorities have warned that heavy rainfall could trigger lahars around Mayon Volcano.
What Is Tropical Storm Nokaen?
- Tropical storm Nokaen, locally named Ada, is the first tropical cyclone of 2026 to affect the Philippines.
- According to the PAGASA, the storm has sustained winds of about 65 kmph, with gusts reaching 80 kmph.
- It is moving slowly northward over the Philippine Sea and is expected to affect the eastern coast of southern Luzon, bringing widespread rainfall over the weekend.
Why Mayon Volcano Is at Risk
- Mayon Volcano, located in Albay province, is one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines.
- It has been restive since January 1, with recent eruptions depositing loose volcanic materials on its slopes.
- Heavy rainfall from tropical storm Nokaen can mobilise these materials, forming lahars, which are fast-moving volcanic mudflows that travel along river channels and drainage systems, posing serious risks to nearby communities.
Warnings from Volcanic Authorities
- The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) has issued warnings that intense rainfall of 100-200 mm could generate syn eruption lahars.
- These lahars may form by mixing rainwater with fresh pyroclastic deposits from ongoing volcanic activity. Phivolcs also cautioned that some lahars may remain hot, causing severe burns and life-threatening injuries upon contact.
Threats to Communities and Infrastructure
- Authorities warned that lahars could threaten downstream communities through inundation, burial, boulder impacts and washouts, potentially reaching coastal areas east of the volcano.
- Older volcanic deposits on the southwestern slopes may also be remobilised as non-eruption lahars.
- Thousands of residents around Mayon have already been displaced due to volcanic activity, and heavy rains could further worsen conditions in evacuation centres and complicate emergency response operations.
What Are Lahars?
- Lahars are volcanic mudflows made of water, ash, rock and debris.
- They usually occur when heavy rainfall mixes with loose volcanic material on a volcano’s slopes.
- Lahars can flow rapidly and over long distances, destroying everything in their path.
- They are among the deadliest volcanic hazards and can occur even when a volcano is not actively erupting.
Key Summary at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
| Why in News? | Tropical storm Nokaen raising lahar risk |
| Storm Name | Nokaen (Ada) |
| Affected Area | Southern Luzon, Philippines |
| Volcano at Risk | Mayon Volcano |
| Main Threat | Lahars and muddy streamflows |
| Rainfall Expected | 100-200 mm |
Question
Q. Lahars are best described as,
A. Lava fountains
B. Volcanic ash clouds
C. Volcanic mudflows
D. Earthquake-triggered landslides
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