Phivolcs keeps Kanlaon Volcano on Alert Level 3

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) maintained Alert Level 3 for Kanlaon Volcano following an explosive eruption on December 9 and subsequent events.

In the past 24 hours leading up to Monday, January 13, Kanlaon Volcano experienced 22 volcanic earthquakes, including seven volcanic tremors, with durations ranging from 10 to 62 minutes.

Two ash emission events were recorded, lasting between 10 to 47 minutes, with voluminous plumes rising up to 500 meters, indicating continuous degassing with occasional ash emissions.

Phivolcs observed that Mt. Kanlaon emitted 5460 tonnes of sulfur dioxide flux on Sunday and noted inflation in the volcano's edifice.

These conditions are similar to those monitored before the December 9 eruption, suggesting a potential blockage in the volcano's conduit leading to magma pressurization.

The six-kilometer radius from the volcano's summit remains evacuated, and flying aircraft near it is prohibited.

Kanlaon City and Vallehermoso towns in Negros Oriental were placed under a state of calamity, and the Office of the Civil Defense is preparing a plan to transfer evacuees.