Kanlaon Volcano Eruption: Sulfur Dioxide Emissions Surge, Evacuations Ordered
Kanlaon Volcano Spews Tons of Sulfur Dioxide, Raising Concerns of Imminent Eruption
Negros Occidental, Philippines – Kanlaon volcano continues to spew massive amounts of sulfur dioxide, raising concerns about a potential eruption in the coming weeks. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) reported that the volcano has been emitting an alarming 4,000 tonnes of sulfur dioxide per day as its explosive eruption on Monday.
Adding to the unease, PHIVOLCS recorded 30 volcanic earthquakes in the past 24 hours. While the agency hasn’t yet raised the alert level to 4, which signifies an imminent eruption, they are closely monitoring the situation.
“We will assess this on a day-to-day basis,” said PHIVOLCS chief Teresito bacolcol. “Alert Level 3 means a hazardous eruption is absolutely possible within the next few weeks. But we will have to evaluate if it will escalate further.”
Mandatory evacuations are in effect within the six-kilometer permanent danger zone surrounding the volcano. Local government units are urging residents to prepare for the possibility of a higher alert level.
“The mindset should be that the alert level will go up, not down,” Bacolcol emphasized. “we are already planning for the worst-case scenario,where the pyroclastic density current could extend up to 10 kilometers. This woudl require evacuating almost 139,000 individuals, necessitating additional evacuation centers and resources.”
The Office of Civil Defense is coordinating with various agencies to ensure preparedness for a potential large-scale evacuation. The Department of Social Welfare and Development has assured the public that they are ready to accommodate all evacuees.
The Department of Health has already delivered essential supplies, including medicines, N95 masks, and nutritional commodities, to affected communities.
Meanwhile,the Department of Tourism has suspended all tourism activities in the affected areas,including trekking,swimming,and farm visits,to ensure the safety of visitors and residents.
As Kanlaon Volcano continues its volatile activity, authorities remain vigilant, urging residents to stay informed and prepared for any eventuality.
Kanlaon Volcano on High Alert: Interview with PHIVOLCS Chief
NewsDirectory3.com: Teresito Bacolcol, chief of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), thank you for joining us today.kanlaon Volcano continues to emit alarming levels of sulfur dioxide and tremors. Can you please elaborate on the current situation and the risks involved?
Teresito Bacolcol: The situation at Kanlaon Volcano remains volatile. We are currently observing an emission rate of 4,000 tonnes of sulfur dioxide per day, coupled with 30 volcanic earthquakes recorded in the past 24 hours. These are strong indicators of an active magma system beneath the volcano. While Alert Level 3 signifies a hazardous eruption is possible within weeks, the possibility of escalation to Alert Level 4, indicating an imminent eruption, remains.
NewsDirectory3.com: what measures are being taken to ensure the safety of communities surrounding the volcano?
Teresito Bacolcol: Mandatory evacuations are in place within the six-kilometer permanent danger zone.Local government units are urging residents to prepare for a potential increase in the alert level. We are adopting a worst-case scenario approach,anticipating a possible pyroclastic density current extending up to 10 kilometers. This could necessitate the evacuation of approximately 139,000 individuals,requiring additional evacuation centers and resources.
NewsDirectory3.com: What agencies are involved in the preparedness and response efforts?
Teresito Bacolcol:
The Office of Civil Defense is coordinating with various agencies, including the Department of Social Welfare and Advancement, who have assured us of their readiness to accommodate all evacuees. The Department of Health has already provided essential supplies, including medicines and N95 masks, to affected communities.
NewsDirectory3.com: Has tourism in the area been affected by the situation?
Teresito Bacolcol:
Yes, the Department of Tourism has suspended all tourism activities within the affected areas, including trekking, swimming, and farm visits, to prioritize the safety of both visitors and residents.
NewsDirectory3.com: What is the message for residents living near Kanlaon volcano?
Teresito Bacolcol: The message is clear: be prepared. Maintain a vigilant outlook and follow the instructions of local authorities.The mindset should be that the alert level will escalate, not de-escalate. Stay informed by monitoring official sources and updates from PHIVOLCS. We are committed to providing timely information and ensuring the safety of all communities.