IN response to heightened activity at Kanlaon Volcano, Civil Defense Administrator Ariel Nepomuceno has directed the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) in Western Visayas to fast-track preparations for potential worst-case scenarios, particularly if an eruption coincides with a typhoon.
“Preparing for worst-case scenarios is crucial for saving lives,” stated Administrator Nepomuceno. “Our response plans must be robust and ready for immediate implementation, especially when natural disasters threaten.”
Nepomuceno underscored the critical role of local government units (LGUs) in these efforts, urging them to accelerate all preemptive and risk mitigation measures. “I appeal to LGUs to work swiftly in executing measures that could prevent loss of life and livelihood in the event of a major eruption. Now is the time to act.”
He also called on affected residents to heed guidance from local leaders and advisories from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) and the OCD. “Residents must stay informed and follow instructions from authorities to ensure their safety. Cooperation can make a significant difference in our collective response.”
Current Activity at Kanlaon Volcano
According to PHIVOLCS, Kanlaon Volcano showed significant activity on Friday, November 8, 2024, with gray ash emissions from the summit crater at 3:51 PM. The event, captured by time-lapse footage, involved grayish plumes rising approximately 700 meters above the crater and drifting northwest, as documented by the Kanlaon Volcano Observatory’s Canlaon City IP Camera. Light ashfall was reported in Sitio Guintubdan, Brgy. Ara-al, La Carlota City.
Kanlaon Volcano remains at Alert Level 2 (indicating increasing unrest), which suggests the potential for eruptive activity. Continuous degassing and ash emissions indicate that the volcano’s hydrothermal system is superheated. OCD has consulted PHIVOLCS regarding this degassing, and PHIVOLCS officials confirmed that ash emissions may result from intense degassing or rising magma. PHIVOLCS is currently analyzing samples to determine if they consist of fresh or older deposits.
While signs point to possible rising magma that could lead to a magmatic eruption, PHIVOLCS has stated that the timing of any such event is uncertain. At present, there is no indication of an imminent stronger eruption, though PHIVOLCS will raise the alert level if monitoring parameters change significantly, signaling increased risk of explosive activity.
The Office of Civil Defense continues to monitor the situation closely and urges the public to remain vigilant and prepared for any developments related to Kanlaon Volcano.