Kanlaon Volcano on Alert Level 3 amid magmatic unrest

Kanlaon Volcano remains at Alert Level 3, indicating magmatic unrest, following an explosive eruption on December 9.

Phivolcs reported that magma has risen to less than five kilometers from the crater, with inflation observed on the volcano's eastern side, suggesting magma accumulation.

State volcanologists noted a significant drop in sulfur dioxide emissions to 2,183 metric tons on Sunday, down from over 4,000 tons in June last year.

The absence of ash emissions since February 7 suggests the volcanic conduit may be plugged, potentially leading to pressure build-up and an explosion.

Phivolcs is monitoring three possible scenarios: a slow rise of magma leading to lava overflow, a fast rise causing a strong eruption, or weakening magma movement.

Flights remain prohibited near the volcano due to potential hazards including explosive eruptions, lava flows, ashfalls, rockfalls, lahars, and pyroclastic flows.