Kanlaon Volcano on Negros Island recorded 16 volcanic earthquakes over the past 24 hours, matching the previous day’s tally, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).
In its latest bulletin, PHIVOLCS noted that among these, two were volcanic tremors lasting between eight and 25 minutes. This is a reduction from the six volcanic tremors recorded on Thursday, which lasted up to 52 minutes.
Understanding the Activity
- Volcanic Earthquakes: Caused by movements within the volcano and distinguishable by specific seismic characteristics.
- Volcanic Tremors: Continuous low-frequency signals, often caused by magma movements or explosions.
Kanlaon remains under Alert Level 3, indicating intensified unrest and a heightened risk of hazardous eruption within weeks. The volcano’s edifice remains inflated, with ongoing magmatic intrusion into shallow areas.
Recent Developments
- Sulfur Dioxide Emissions: 7,705 tons were released, up from 5,756 tons reported the day prior.
- Explosive Activity: On December 9, an eruption sent a 4,000-meter ash plume skyward, accompanied by pyroclastic density currents (PDCs) and ashfall.
- Evacuation Advisory: Residents within a six-kilometer radius of the summit have been urged to evacuate. Aircraft operations near the volcano remain prohibited.
Preparations for Escalation
The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) has announced preparations for potential escalation, including establishing a tent city in Himamaylan City. Local authorities are bracing for potential hazards such as:
- Sudden explosive eruptions
- Lava flows
- Ashfall
- Pyroclastic density currents
- Lahars triggered by heavy rainfall
Kanlaon’s persistent unrest underscores the need for vigilance and preparedness among affected communities.