Kanlaon Volcano Erupts: Communities Warned of Dangers

Communities living near Kanlaon Volcano in the Philippines are urged to exercise extreme caution following an explosive eruption on Monday. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) raised the volcano’s alert level to 3, warning of the potential for ongoing pyroclastic density currents (PDCs) and volcanic ashfall.

Explosive Eruption and Potential Dangers

The eruption, lasting for 3 minutes and 55 seconds, involved a forceful expulsion of material from the summit vent. This event occurred without any precursory seismic activity. The eruption generated PDCs, fast-moving currents of hot gas, ash, and rock fragments, which reached a height of approximately 3.5 kilometers.

According to Phivolcs Director Renato Solidum Jr., PDCs are extremely hazardous. “PDCs are very dangerous and could destroy trees, establishments, and could also kill,” he emphasized. “They go down so fast with a speed of hundreds of km per hour. They incinerate people, and one wouldn’t be able to run away from them because they’re too fast.”

Volcanic Ashfall Concerns

The ash plume from the eruption reached a height of 4 kilometers, affecting several towns in Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental, as well as Guimaras and Antique. Phivolcs advises residents in affected areas to avoid inhaling volcanic ash, as it can exacerbate respiratory problems.

“Wear a mask, ideally an N95 or surgical mask,” added Dr. Solidum. “A wet cloth can also be used as a face mask.”

Safety Precautions

The authorities have reiterated that entry into a 6-kilometer radius around the volcano’s summit should be strictly prohibited. “Don’t enter the 6-km radius from the volcano’s summit as there may be sudden eruptions like what happened yesterday,” warned Dr. Solidum.