EMO: Pagan eruption possible

There are indications that Pagan Volcano may erupt, warned the Emergency Management Office yesterday.

EMO raised the possibility of volcanic eruption based on information from the Washington Volcano Observatory that reported low level steam and ash emissions from Pagan.

EMO said Pagan residents reported a 200-foot ash cloud, with ash falling like rain.

Pagan residents, however, did not feel any tremor and did not hear any explosions or rumblings. There are about 20 residents on Pagan.

EMO said Pagan residents will experience sulfur-like odor and they are urged to minimize outdoor activities to prevent ailment due to the ash emission.

“Aircraft should remain alert for possible eruptions, steam, or ash clouds and report any sightings to Air Tower Control,” the agency said.

The EMO and the U.S. Geological Survey are monitoring Pagan activities.

Pagan Volcano last erupted in the late ’80s, spewing out volcanic ash.

Another big explosion occurred in May 2003, with increased activity beginning March 2004. [I][B](Ferdie de la Torre)[/B][/I]