Heavy Rains Trigger Flooding Near Kanlaon Volcano
Approximately 80 residents of La Castellana town in Negros Occidental were evacuated after flooding caused by a creek filled with hardened lahar overflowed in Barangay Biak-na-Bato, near the foot of Kanlaon Volcano. Continuous heavy rain intensified the situation, officials reported.
The swelling Ibid Creek rendered the La Castellana–Canlaon National Road temporarily impassable, sources said. This disruption affected local travel and hampered access to affected areas during the emergency.
Challenges in Creek Maintenance and Flood Control
Local leaders explained that La Castellana has long requested permission from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to dredge Ibid Creek. However, because the creek lies within the protected Mount Kanlaon Natural Park, no permit has been issued to date, officials noted.
Once measuring eight meters deep, the creek has now been filled with hardened lahar deposits. This buildup has reduced its capacity to contain heavy water flow, causing overflow into nearby upland communities, community members said.
Impact on Communities and Evacuation Efforts
Floodwaters spilled into several downstream villages, affecting about 20 houses in Barangay Biak-na-Bato alone. As a result, around 80 residents were forced to evacuate, with the number expected to rise if rains continue, local authorities warned.
Additional evacuations were reported in the villages of Robles and Sag-ang, both within La Castellana, due to persistent flooding. Officials are closely monitoring the situation to provide timely assistance.
Wider Flooding Incidents in Negros Occidental
In Ilog town, floodwaters from a sugarcane plantation also crossed the national road in So. Moog, Vista Alegre, Barangay Dancalan, according to provincial disaster management officials. This has caused further travel disruptions and safety concerns.
Bago City also experienced flooding on a road in Barangay Mailum, adding to the region’s ongoing challenges amid heavy rainfall, sources reported.
Authorities continue to urge residents to stay vigilant and follow evacuation orders as weather conditions remain unstable. Relief efforts are ongoing to assist affected families and restore access to flooded areas.
For more news and updates on flooding near Kanlaon Volcano, visit Filipinokami.com.
