PHIVOLCS warns lahar risk near Mt. Kanlaon due to heavy rain

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) has issued a warning to residents near Mount Kanlaon due to moderate to heavy rainfall on Friday, June 6.

Rain from the southwest monsoon mixed with volcanic material, causing lahars along the Buhangin River and beneath Hacienda 92 Bridge in Barangay Sag-ang, as well as in Barangay Biak-na-bato near La Castellana, Negros Occidental.

PHIVOLCS recorded 45.5 mm of rain over three-and-a-half hours at the All-Weather Station in La Carlota City and noted higher rainfall likely around the volcano’s summit.

The agency warned that continued heavy rains could generate more lahars in rivers draining Mount Kanlaon, posing a threat to communities on the volcano's middle and lower slopes.

PHIVOLCS advises local government units to monitor weather conditions closely and take preemptive measures when heavy rain is expected or has begun over the upper slopes of Mount Kanlaon for community safety.

Kanlaon volcano remains under alert level 3, and PHIVOLCS recommends increased vigilance and readiness among communities along rivers draining the southern part of the volcano.