The area surrounding the Piparo mud volcano has been cordoned off, following a period of heightened activity.

The Local Government Ministry says this precautionary measure will remain in place until gas emissions decrease to safer levels.

It says the volume of gas being emitted is notably higher than usual, with recent assessments also indicating the release of mud approximately every 70 seconds.

Additionally, the main vent has visibly grown in size and height, with new active faults and fractures observed mainly on the northwestern and northeastern quadrants of the volcano.

Heightened activity has also been noted at four small vents, with one in the northeastern quadrant emitting oily mud and three in the northwestern quadrant releasing gas vigorously.

The Ministry says possible triggers and response may include recent seismic events, including an earthquake occurring a day ago and several others in the preceding weeks, which may have contributed to increased pressure along fault lines.

The formation of fresh fractures also suggests that pressure is being released as faults subside.