Breaking: Mayon Volcano Erupts in the Philippines

While it has been quaking for quite some time and smoke has been seen rising from the peak of Mayon Volcano in the Philippines finally erupted early this morning. As one of the worlds most active volcanos, it was only a matter of time before the smoke turned into a full-blown eruption. Despite the lava flows and danger area, the volcano did not explosively erupt which in addition to the lava flow would send tons of ash into the sky and suffocating crops.

The eruption sent lava flows as far as 1.2 miles from the crater of the volcano and officials warned of going anywhere within 3.7 to 4.3 miles around the volcano. Tourists are usually the most likely to venture towards the lava flow as it's a once in a lifetime event (yeah to like, die a horrible painful death) Why on earth anyone would want to do that is beyond us. "Hey, Fred let's go hang out by the exploding volcano and lava." Doesn't seem like a great idea, but then again, people are eating Tide detergent packets so, anything is possible.While the eruption was not explosive in nature it didn't stop roughly 34,000 people from the area from being displaced while the volcano continues to spew lava. Officials declared a state of emergency which allow funds to be more easily dispersed during this natural disaster. In addition, several emergency shelters were set up to house those displaced by this eruption.

Despite its picturesque beauty in the coconut growing area of the Philippines, the Mayon volcano has erupted 50 times in the last 500 years, making it one of the most volatile and dangerous around. Climbers and hikers alike flock to the mountain year-round to take in its scenic views despite the fact that as recently as 2013 an ash eruption killed climbers who were on the mountain.