There is greater volcanic activity now at Mount Kanlaon, Negros Island’s highest peak and this has led to the raising of the alert level to 2 by Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) on June 3, 2024, in Kanlaon City, Negros Occidental.
Timeline of Events
- June 3, 2024, 10:20 PM: A moderate eruption occurs at the volcano’s summit vent, spewing a significant ash plume that reaches as far as 7 kilometers to the south-southwest.
- June 3, 2024: Alarmingly, pyroclastic density currents, superheated avalanches of gas and volcanic debris are observed on the southern slopes.
- June 3, 2024: Residents in nearby areas report rumbling sounds and a strong sulfur dioxide odor.
- June 3, 2024: Phivolcs raises the alert level for Kanlaon Volcano to 2 due to “increasing unrest.”
- June 5, 2024: As of today, Phivolcs advises residents to stay clear of the designated 4-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) surrounding the volcano.
Hazards and Staying Safe
Phivolcs alerts potential risks such as additional explosions, pyroclastic flows, falling fragments or rocks as well as volcanic landslides. It tells residents that they should avoid the 4-kilometre-long PDZ around the volcano completely to lower their chances at risk. For an eruption, such areas are usually at greater danger of any volcanic hazards.
Monitoring Ashfall and Staying Informed
Current ash plume trajectories indicate that the ash cloud is not moving in the direction of Cebu. However, it is important to follow Phivolcs alerts because of the way wind behaves which may bring about changes.
Resources and Updates
For the latest information on Kanlaon Volcano’s activity, you can refer to the following:
- DOST-PHIVOLCS Kanlaon Volcano Bulletin: phivolcs.dost.gov.ph
- Philstar Live Updates: Philstar article on Kanlaon Activity
Remember: Following advisories from Phivolcs and local authorities is essential for ensuring your safety during volcanic activity.
