Blue Moon Could Trigger Mayon Eruption

A power cut off was enforced Thursday in the danger zone around restive Mayon Volcano as authorities warned that the rare blue moon

On New Year’s Day could trigger a massive eruption.

Local volcanologist Eduardo Laguerta said the volcano’s behavior indicates a major eruption in the offing, especially when the moon is full—a possible trigger mechanism for a volcano that is ready to erupt.

The gravitational effect when the moon is full and near the Earth could quicken up the ascent of magma out of the volcano, other volcanologists agreed, but Director Prisco Nilo, head of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said the theory was debatable.

At any rate, Albay Gov. Joey Salceda ordered the Albay Electric Cooperative (Aleco) and the National Power Corp. (NPC) to cut power supply in villages within the danger zone in order to stop residents from returning.

Salceda said water supply may be turned off Friday.