volcanic rocks and ash spewed by the Mayon volcano located in the Albay province of the Philippines have destroyed crops worth around us $2.65 million. This initial estimate did not include the damage done to coconut plantations which was being assessed by agriculture officials.

The volcano erupted in the lastweek of February, hurling tonnes of ash over the neighbouring towns. The department of agriculture in Albay reported that the hot volcanic ashand rocks had destroyed unmilled rice, fruit trees, vegetables, bananas and hemp.

The crisis could aggravate due to sporadic rainfall. According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology: "Due to rainfall, lahar (lava) flows may occur along major tributaries." The hot rivers of lava could descend at speeds of 3-10 metres per second, demolishing everything that comes in their way.Those living near river banks and on low-lying areas have already been warned about these potentially destructive flows.