Kanlaon volcano spews ash, mandatory evacuations ordered

Task Force Kanlaon mandated immediate evacuations within the six-kilometer extended danger zone after Kanlaon Volcano emitted a dark plume about 1.2 kilometers high on Monday.

Phivolcs reported that on Tuesday, the volcano intermittently spewed grayish ash emissions that rose 500 meters above its crater and lasted for hours.

The mayor of Canlaon City, Negros Oriental, ordered a muted Christmas celebration in evacuation shelters due to the continuing threat, prohibiting traditional parties with fireworks due to the volcano's unpredictable activity.

Some 6,400 individuals are currently staying in evacuation centers.

Phivolcs had previously placed the volcano under Alert Level 3 on December 9 after an eruption produced a voluminous plume, leading to the evacuation of thousands.

Alert Level 3 indicates a hazardous eruption is possible in the coming weeks.

Phivolcs strongly recommended mandatory evacuations within the six-kilometer radius and urged LGUs to prepare for potential escalation to Alert Level 4 following Monday's activity.