A weak explosion was recorded on Mount Pinatubo on Tuesday noon, seismology agency Phivolcs confirmed.
Phivolcs said that the explosion sent plumes—smoke with volcanic particles and gas—that reached as far as Tokyo. Japan’s Himawari-8 satellite detected the plume, prompting the Tokyo Volcanic Ash Advisory Center to report the volcanic activity to Phivolcs.
The agency cautioned the public to refrain from venturing in the vicinities of Pinatubo Volcano at this time.
Phivolcs also advised local government units to prohibit entry into the Pinatubo crater until the reason behind the explosion has been determined.
The agency reminded communities and local governments to stay prepared for earthquake and volcanic hazards and to review and strengthen their disaster preparedness plans.
DOST-Phivolcs said that they were closely monitoring the situation.
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