BACOLOD CITY, Philippines — A moderate explosive eruption from Kanlaon Volcano on Negros Island blanketed 54 barangays with ashfall on Monday, prompting health and safety warnings from authorities.
The eruption, which produced a plume reaching 4.5 kilometers above the summit, was accompanied by a strong sulfur odor and incandescent pyroclastic density currents that descended two kilometers down the volcano’s southern slopes. Ballistic fragments were also ejected, scorching vegetation near the summit.
Despite the dramatic activity, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) maintained Kanlaon at Alert Level 3, signifying a relatively high level of volcanic unrest. However, should activity intensify, the alert may be raised to Level 4, extending the danger zone from six to ten kilometers.
Residents in 49 barangays across Bago City, La Castellana, La Carlota, San Enrique, Pontevedra, and Hinigaran were affected by ashfall. Authorities are urging the public to take the following precautions:
- Stay indoors as much as possible, especially during ashfall.
- Wear face masks (preferably N95) to protect against inhaling volcanic ash and sulfur gases.
- Close doors and windows to prevent ash from entering homes.
- Clean roofs and gutters regularly to prevent ash buildup that may cause structural damage.
- Avoid rivers and streams near the volcano due to possible lahar (volcanic mudflow) during heavy rains.
- Monitor Phivolcs and local government unit updates for evacuation advisories and health alerts.
Phivolcs Director Teresito Bacolcol emphasized that the eruption’s plumes contain ash, dust, and volcanic fragments, which pose hazards to both health and aviation. Pilots have been advised to avoid flying near the volcano.
Local disaster risk reduction teams remain on alert, and emergency services are prepared in case the situation worsens.
