Kanlaon Volcano Sulfur Dioxide Emissions Rise Again
Kanlaon Volcano on Negros Island has shown a notable increase in sulfur dioxide emissions, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported Thursday. This rise in sulfur dioxide levels signals heightened volcanic activity and continued unrest.
In the latest 24-hour monitoring, Kanlaon released 1,422 tons of sulfur dioxide, up from 1,339 tons recorded the previous day. Alongside this, the volcano experienced eight volcanic earthquakes, doubling the four tremors detected the day before.
Current Alert Status and Volcanic Hazards
Phivolcs maintains Alert Level 3 over Kanlaon Volcano, indicating a high level of volcanic unrest. The volcano’s edifice remains swollen, and its volcanic plume is currently obscured by clouds, limiting visual observation. Residents and visitors are urged to remain vigilant.
The agency warned of several potential hazards, including sudden explosive eruptions, lava flows, ashfall, pyroclastic density currents, rockfalls, and lahars especially during heavy rains. These dangers pose serious risks to communities near the volcano.
Evacuation and Airspace Restrictions
Authorities remind people living within a six-kilometer radius of Kanlaon’s summit to evacuate immediately. Additionally, flying any aircraft near the volcano is strictly prohibited to ensure safety from volcanic ash and sudden eruptions.
Challenges in Evacuee Support Amid Unrest
Local government units in the Negros Island Region report ongoing difficulties in assisting over 6,000 evacuees displaced by Kanlaon’s activity. Despite a national government aid package worth P203 million promised in May, funds have yet to be released.
Regional officials noted that the Department of Budget and Management has not yet disbursed the financial aid to key local governments, including La Carlota City, Himamaylan City, La Castellana town in Negros Occidental, and Canlaon City in Negros Oriental. This delay hampers efforts to provide adequate relief and support to affected families.
For more news and updates on Kanlaon Volcano sulfur dioxide emissions, visit Filipinokami.com.