DOH warns of ashfall health risks near Kanlaon Volcano

The Department of Health (DOH) issued a warning to residents near Kanlaon Volcano in Negros Island about the health risks associated with ashfall following an explosive eruption on Tuesday.

Volcanic ash consists of fine particles that can enter the lungs, posing potential respiratory issues for individuals with existing medical conditions.

According to DOST-Phivolcs and OCD reports, some barangays close to Kanlaon are already experiencing intense ashfall, prompting over 2,000 families to evacuate to temporary shelters.

Residents are advised to wear protective gear such as N95 masks or wet cloths for those without access to medical masks, and safety goggles or glasses if available.

The DOH emphasizes the importance of following local government evacuation orders based on wind direction data from PHIVOLCS and PAGASA to protect residents with respiratory issues.

People in affected areas are reminded of the need to take precautionary measures to safeguard their health during Alert Level 3, which recommends evacuation within a six-kilometer radius around the volcano’s summit.