Phivolcs notes increase in Kanlaon sulfur dioxide emissions

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) observed 13 ash emission events at Kanlaon Volcano on Thursday, December 12, with plumes reaching 100 meters high.

Sulfur dioxide emissions from the volcano averaged 3,999 tons a day as of December 12, but later increased to 5,798 tonnes in the 24 hours leading up to Saturday, December 14.

Seven volcanic earthquakes were monitored on December 12, with a subsequent decrease to five earthquakes in the 24 hours leading up to December 14.

Alert Level 3 remains in effect, indicating magmatic intrusion that could lead to hazardous eruptions.

Phivolcs reminded residents within the six-kilometer danger zone to evacuate, and flying of any aircraft close to the volcano is not allowed.

Possible hazards include sudden explosive eruption, lava flow, ashfall, pyroclastic density current, rockfall, and lahars.

President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. assured that the government is monitoring the situation and is on top of it.

Kanlaon's eruption last Monday has affected 11,791 families or 40,489 persons in Western Visayas and Central Visayas, with 4,612 families currently in evacuation centers.