Kanlaon Volcano unrest persists

Kanlaon Volcano on Negros Island continued to exhibit heightened unrest, with state volcanologists documenting a series of volcanic earthquakes and significant gas emissions in recent days.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported 26 volcanic earthquakes on 1 January, followed by 27 on both 2 and 3 January. This activity follows the 45 earthquakes recorded on New Year’s Eve. Additionally, volcanic tremors lasting nearly five hours were observed during this period.

While ash emissions were noted during the first two days of January, no new ash plumes have been detected in the most recent 24-hour monitoring period ending Saturday, 4 January. However, the volcano continues to release considerable sulfur dioxide, averaging 5,840 tons daily.

Phivolcs cautioned that the ongoing magmatic intrusion near the surface could lead to a hazardous eruption in the coming weeks. Potential hazards include sudden explosive eruptions, lava flows, ashfall and lahars, particularly during heavy rainfall.

In response, authorities have expanded the danger zone to six kilometers from the volcano’s summit and strongly advised residents and visitors to avoid the area.

The Office of Civil Defense has confirmed ongoing preparations in anticipation of a possible escalation to Alert Level 4, which would signal an imminent hazardous eruption.