Originally published by the Voice of America (www.voanews.com).
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Scientists Warn Philippines Volcano Has Entered Dangerous Phase
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http://enews.voanews.com/t?r=279&ctl=1378294:3919ACA Volcanologist says
pyroclastic flows are worrying because they can race down volcano's
slopes at speeds of at least 60 kilometers per hour





Lava continues to cascade down the slopes of Mayon volcano as seen
from Legazpi city, Albay province southeast of Manila at dusk, August
11, 2006Scientists in the Philippines say the rumbling Mayon volcano
has entered a more dangerous phase, belching a deadly "pyroclastic
flow" of hot volcanic gas and ash.

Volcanologist Ed Laguerta said Sunday pyroclastic flows are more
worrying than normal lava flows because they cover wide areas and can
race down the volcano's slopes at speeds of at least 60 kilometers per
hour.

Volcanologists last week said the volcano's level of sulfur dioxide
emissions had dropped, which could mean pressure is building up for an
explosive eruption.

Nearly 40,000 people have left their homes and farmland for emergency
shelters as they wait to see what the 2,400-meter volcano will do.

Mayon is one of the Philippines' most active volcanos. It has erupted
at least 47 times in the past 400 years.

Some information for this report was provided by AFP and AP.

 

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