Kanlaon Volcano Logs Six Volcanic Quakes in 24 Hours
Kanlaon Volcano on Negros Island recorded six volcanic earthquakes within the last 24 hours, sources reported Sunday. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) confirmed these tremors in its 5 a.m. bulletin.
Alongside the seismic activity, sulfur dioxide emissions surged to 922 tons on August 2, with volcanic plumes rising as high as 600 meters. This marked an increase compared to Saturday’s 787 tons of sulfur dioxide and nine recorded tremors.
Alert Level Changes and Community Impact
Phivolcs lowered Kanlaon’s alert level from 3 to 2 on July 29, easing tensions in nearby communities. Following this downgrade, nearly 4,000 residents who had long stayed in evacuation centers since December were allowed to return home, according to local disaster officials.
However, authorities stressed that people living within the permanent 4-kilometer danger zone must remain evacuated. This precaution aligns with Alert Level 2 protocols to prevent casualties from sudden volcanic hazards.
Ongoing Risks Despite Alert Level Downgrade
Experts warned of possible short-lived explosive eruptions and sudden steam-driven, or phreatic, explosions. These events could unleash deadly volcanic phenomena, including pyroclastic density currents, flying rocks, rockfalls, and toxic gas emissions.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development reported that as of August 1, almost 95,000 individuals are still affected by the unrest at Kanlaon Volcano.
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