The Kanlaon Volcano, located in Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental, exhibited increased activity on New Year’s Day with seven ash emissions and 28 volcanic earthquakes recorded, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).
In its bulletin, Phivolcs reported that the ash emissions lasted between 23 and 264 minutes, producing plumes as high as 400 meters that drifted westward. The volcanic quakes ranged in duration from 10 to 282 minutes.
Intensified Volcanic Activity
Kanlaon Volcano continues to exhibit magmatic unrest, emitting 3,406 metric tons of sulfur dioxide on January 1. Persistent degassing with occasional ash emissions has also been observed.
The volcano remains under Alert Level 3, signaling intensified unrest that could lead to sudden eruptions, lava flow, ashfall, pyroclastic flows, or lahars during heavy rains.
Safety Measures
Phivolcs reiterated that flights near the volcano are strictly prohibited. The public is also warned to avoid venturing within the 4-kilometer permanent danger zone (PDZ) due to potential hazards such as:
- Sudden explosive eruptions
- Lava flows or effusions
- Ashfall
- Rockfall
- Pyroclastic and lahar flows
Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have advised residents in nearby areas to stay vigilant and prepare for possible evacuation if necessary.