Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology – Department of Science and Technology has released an advisory regarding heightened volcanic activity at Kanlaon Volcano. Since 11:45 AM today, dark ash emissions have been observed from the summit, accompanied by weak, low-frequency volcanic earthquakes. A dark ash plume, approximately 1.2 kilometers high, is drifting northwest, with ashfall expected in communities in Negros Occidental located northwest to west of the volcano.
Although other monitored parameters remain elevated but generally stable, the public is reminded that Alert Level 3 (Magmatic Unrest) is currently in effect. This indicates an increased risk of sudden and more intense explosive eruptions, posing significant dangers to nearby areas.
Precautionary Measures for Residents and Authorities:
• Evacuation Reminder: Residents within the 6-kilometer permanent danger zone must remain evacuated due to potential hazards such as pyroclastic density currents (PDCs), ballistic projectiles, ashfall, lava flows, and rockfalls.
• Lahar Warning: Heavy rains may trigger lahars or sediment-laden streamflows, especially in barangays of La Castellana and Canlaon City and other downstream areas previously affected by lahars in June 2024. Residents in these zones are urged to stay vigilant.
• Aviation Safety: Pilots should avoid flying near the volcano’s summit as ash emissions can endanger aircraft.
Local government units (LGUs) and disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) councils are advised to monitor the situation closely. Preparations for evacuation should be in place, especially for communities identified in the DOST-PHIVOLCS Pyroclastic Density Currents Hazard Map as reminded by PHIVOLCS.
