Kanlaon Volcano eruption prompts evacuations, PHIVOLCS raises alert level

Five barangays in Canlaon City and more than 1,500 individuals in Negros Occidental have been evacuated following Kanlaon Volcano's eruption on June 3, with PHIVOLCS raising the alert level to Alert Level 2.

On Thursday, twenty-seven volcanic earthquakes were recorded over the past 24 hours, while a plume reached up to one and a half kilometers high and drifted northwest, southeast, and southwest. The volcano also released 3,464 tons of sulfur dioxide.

Since Monday, PHIVOLCS has recorded forty-three volcanic earthquakes, with ashfall reported in Barangay Cabagnaan in La Castellana and other nearby areas such as La Carlota City, Bago City, Murcia, and Bacolod City. Roads, cars, vegetation, and houses were covered in ash.

PHIVOLCS Director Dr. Teresito Bacolcol outlined three scenarios for future volcanic activity: sustained phreatic or short-lived explosive eruptions at Alert Level 2; worsening conditions leading to a magmatic eruption with an alert level increase to Alert Level 3; or declining parameters allowing for a reduction to Alert Level 1.

Local officials have closed non-essential businesses within a four-kilometer radius, and tourism sites are also shut down. Health advisories advise residents to wear face masks and protect their eyes from ashfall. PHIVOLCS is monitoring possible effects of rainfall on the volcano, as heavy rain could cause muddy floods or lahar.

Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. advised the public to remain alert and familiarize themselves with emergency preparedness measures.