The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology – Department of Science and Technology (Phivolcs) has released an advisory regarding increased activity at Mt. Kanlaon.
Starting at 11:45 a.m., dark ash emissions were observed from the summit, accompanied by weak and low-frequency volcanic earthquakes.
The dark ash plume, reaching approximately 1.2 kilometers high, is drifting towards the northwest, and ashfall is expected in communities in Negros Occidental northwest to west of the volcano.
While other monitored parameters remain elevated, the public is reminded that Alert Level 3 (Magmatic Unrest) is currently in effect.
This signifies an increased possibility of a sudden and stronger eruption, posing significant danger to nearby areas.
Here are safety advisories for the public:
Residents within the 6-kilometer permanent danger zone must evacuate due to potential hazards such as pyroclastic density currents (PDCs), ballistic projectiles, ashfall, lava flow, and rockfalls.
Heavy rainfall could generate lahar or sediment-laden flows, especially in the barangays of La Castellana and Canlaon City and other areas previously affected by lahar in June 2024. Residents in these areas are advised to be vigilant.
Pilots are advised to avoid flying close to the volcano’s crater as ash emissions can be hazardous to aircraft.
Local government units (LGUs) and disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) councils are advised to closely monitor the situation.
Evacuation plans should be prepared, especially for communities within the threat zone of pyroclastic density currents.