Philippines’ Kanlaon Volcano Erupts, Prompts Warnings

Manila, 13 May (ONA) --- The Kanlaon Volcano in the Philippines today erupted with moderate intensity, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS). The eruption lasted for approximately five minutes.

The volcano released a thick ash plume that rose about three kilometers above the summit crater before drifting westward due to prevailing winds.

Light ashfall was reported in several towns within Negros Occidental province, as well as in Bago City. The explosion was also heard in Barangay Bula, Canlaon City, and parts of Negros Oriental.

Glowing pyroclastic density currents (PDCs) traveled up to two kilometers down the southern slopes of the volcano. Large volcanic fragments were ejected hundreds of meters around the crater, igniting nearby vegetation.

PHIVOLCS has maintained Alert Level 3, signifying ongoing volcanic unrest and warning of the potential for further short-term explosive eruptions that could threaten lives.

Local authorities have been urged to evacuate areas within a six-kilometer radius of the summit due to the risk of volcanic projectiles, landslides, rockfalls, and ashfall.

The Civil Aviation Authority has also advised pilots to avoid flying near the volcano’s summit, citing the serious threat volcanic ash poses to aircraft safety.

Kanlaon Volcano, located on Negros Island and part of the central Negros mountain range, is one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines. Standing at approximately 2,435 meters, it is the highest volcanic peak in the Visayas region.

--- Ends/Khalid