Mount Kanlaon Eruption: High Activity Triggers Evacuations in Negros
Kanlaon Volcano Spews Ash, Remains on High Alert
Negros Occidental, Philippines – Mount Kanlaon, an active volcano on the island of Negros, continues to show signs of unrest, prompting ongoing evacuations and raising concerns about potential eruptions.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) reported two ash emission events in the past 24 hours,with plumes reaching up to 100 meters high. These emissions, lasting between 11 and 39 minutes, were accompanied by 31 volcanic earthquakes.
PHIVOLCS also noted “continuous degassing” from the volcanoS summit crater and reported that the volcano’s edifice remains “inflated,” indicating a buildup of pressure beneath the surface.Alert Level 3 remains in effect for Kanlaon, signifying that a “magmatic eruption has begun that may progress to further explosive eruptions.” This level triggers mandatory evacuations within a six-kilometer radius of the volcano’s summit.
As of tuesday, the Office of Civil Defense reported that over 9,400 individuals, representing 2,880 families, have been evacuated from five cities and towns in Negros Occidental.
PHIVOLCS warns that the ongoing activity could lead to several hazards, including sudden explosive eruptions, lava flows, ashfall, rockfalls, pyroclastic density currents, and lahars (volcanic mudflows) triggered by heavy rainfall.
Kanlaon volcano: A Ticking Time Bomb?
NewsDirect3.com Exclusive Interview with Volcanologist Dr. Maria Santos
ND3: Dr. Santos, thank you for joining us today. Kanlaon Volcano has been spewing ash and showing signs of unrest. Can you tell us what’s happening?
Dr. Santos: Mount Kanlaon has been increasingly active over the past few days. We’ve seen two distinct ash emission events, along with numerous volcanic earthquakes. These are clear indicators that magma is rising within the volcano.
ND3: PHIVOLCS has raised the alert level to 3. What does this mean for residents in the area?
Dr. santos: Alert Level 3 signifies a heightened threat. It means a magmatic eruption is already underway, and it could escalate into a more powerful and destructive eruption. Mandatory evacuations within a six-kilometer radius of the summit are crucial to ensure public safety.
ND3: we’ve seen reports of over 9,000 people already evacuated. How long do you anticipate this situation to last?
Dr. Santos: It’s unachievable to say for sure. Volcanic eruptions are complex and unpredictable. The activity could continue for days, weeks, or even longer.It’s vital that residents remain vigilant and follow the instructions of authorities.
ND3: What are the biggest dangers posed by Kanlaon’s current activity?
Dr. Santos:
The volcano presents several hazards, including explosive eruptions, lava flows, ashfall, rockfalls, pyroclastic density currents, and lahars, which are mudflows triggered by rainfall. These phenomena can cause widespread damage and pose a serious threat to life.
ND3: What message do you have for the people living near Kanlaon?
Dr.Santos: Stay calm but remain prepared. Follow the guidance of local officials and PHIVOLCS.Have an emergency plan in place and be ready to evacuate if necessary. Your safety is paramount.
ND3: Thank you, Dr.Santos, for sharing your expertise with us today.