PHIVOLCS raises Kanlaon Volcano to Alert Level 3 after explosive eruption

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) raised Kanlaon Volcano to Alert Level 3 following an explosive eruption on Monday, December 9, indicating magmatic unrest.

The eruption produced a 4-kilometer high plume, lasted for nearly four minutes, and involved magma, unlike previous steam and ash events.

Pyroclastic density currents (PDCs) descended the southeastern slopes, with one traveling several kilometers from the crater.

PHIVOLCS noted a high Sulfur Dioxide flux and observed ground deformation suggesting the volcano edifice is inflated.

A hazardous eruption in the following weeks is now possible, according to PHIVOLCS chief Teresito Bacolcol.

Ashfall was reported in parts of Negros Occidental, and mandatory evacuation within a six-kilometer radius from the summit has been advised for residents.

PHIVOLCS warned of increased lahar risk during heavy rainfall and advised against flying aircraft near the volcano.