Kanlaon Volcano, located on Negros Island, showed increased activity with a surge in sulfur dioxide (SO₂) emissions, as reported by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) on December 12, 2024. The volcano emitted 7,019 tons of SO₂ on December 11, significantly higher than the 4,121 tons recorded the previous day.
Additionally, two volcanic earthquakes were monitored, a notable decrease compared to the 31 reported in the prior bulletin. Despite this, PHIVOLCS confirmed that the volcano’s edifice remains inflated, indicating ongoing volcanic unrest.
Recent activity includes an explosion at the summit vent on December 9, 2024, which generated a towering plume that reached 4,000 meters in height. This event caused ash fall in surrounding areas and pyroclastic density currents (PDCs) that flowed down the slopes of the volcano.
Kanlaon Volcano remains under Alert Level 3, signifying a high level of volcanic unrest. PHIVOLCS warned that magmatic intrusion to shallow levels continues, raising the possibility of a hazardous eruption in the coming weeks.
Communities and authorities have been advised to remain vigilant, with the danger zone extended to a six-kilometer radius from the summit crater. Potential hazards include sudden explosive eruptions, lava flows, ashfalls, PDCs, rockfalls, and lahars during heavy rains.
Residents in the area are urged to heed evacuation orders and avoid activities within the danger zone. PHIVOLCS emphasized the importance of preparedness as the volcano’s condition remains unpredictable.
Kanlaon Volcano is one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines and has historically caused significant disruptions. Continued monitoring and updates from PHIVOLCS will provide critical information to ensure public safety.