THE Kanlaon Volcano on Negros Island continues to exhibit heightened activity, with the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) reporting 16 volcanic earthquakes in the past 24 hours, including six tremors lasting between 49 and 84 minutes.
According to PHIVOLCS’ latest bulletin, the volcano also experienced two ash emission events lasting 43 to 49 minutes and released 3,984 tonnes of sulfur dioxide on Saturday, December 28. A towering 1,200-meter plume was observed drifting westward.
Kanlaon remains under Alert Level 3, indicating magmatic unrest following its explosive eruption on December 9.
Preparing for Possible Scenarios
The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) is preparing for potential developments as experts predict three scenarios: lava flow, a violent eruption, or stabilization of volcanic activity.
OCD Region 6 also warned that the current six-kilometer radius permanent danger zone around the volcano might be expanded to 10 kilometers due to the heightened risk of lahar flows.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines as authorities closely monitor the situation.