This handout photo taken and released by the Philippine Air Force on 12 December 2024 shows a view of the crater on Kanlaon volcano in Negros Occidental province, central Philippines, taken during an aerial inspection following an eruption that occured on 9 December. Handout / Philippine Air Force / AFP
NATION

Kanlaon remains in magmatic unrest

Jaff Conejos

Kanlaon Volcano on Negros Island has remained in a state of intensified or magmatic unrest over the past 24 hours. Alert Level 3 remains in effect, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).

In an advisory, the seismology bureau reported ongoing volcanic activity, including two ash emission events lasting two to six minutes and 10 volcanic earthquakes, including two volcanic tremors.

PHIVOLCS also noted that the volcano emitted 3,186 tons of sulfur dioxide during this period.

The volcano has also shown pronounced inflation of its edifice, suggesting pressurization that may lead to further eruptive activity.

Communities within the six-kilometer radius from the volcano’s summit are recommended to evacuate. Accordingly, flying any aircraft close to the volcano is prohibited.

PHIVOLCS also reminded the public of the possible hazards that may occur, including sudden explosive eruptions, lava flows or effusion, ashfall, pyroclastic density currents, rockfalls, and lahars during heavy rains.

The volcano has been under Alert Level 3 since its explosive eruption on 9 December 2024.