Kanlaon Volcano erupts, spews ash and ballistic fragments

A moderately explosive eruption occurred at Kanlaon Volcano’s summit crater early Tuesday, generating a three-kilometer-high ash plume and prompting fresh warnings from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).

The eruption, which began at 2:55 a.m. and lasted for five minutes, produced rumbling sounds and volcanic hazards such as ashfall, pyroclastic density currents (PDCs), and large ballistic fragments.

Phivolcs confirmed that thin ashfall was reported in several barangays in Negros Occidental, including Cubay, San Miguel, Yubo, and Ara-al in La Carlota City; Ilijan and Binubuhan in Bago City; and Biak-na-Bato, Sag-ang, and Mansalanao in La Castellana.

Audible eruption sounds were also reported in Barangay Pula, Canlaon City, Negros Oriental, and in La Castellana.

PDCs—fast-moving, hot flows of gas and volcanic debris—were observed descending the southern slopes within two kilometers of the summit. Large ballistic fragments, described by Phivolcs as heavy volcanic rocks ejected during the eruption, caused vegetation fires near the crater.

Kanlaon remains under Alert Level 3, indicating magmatic unrest and the possibility of additional explosive eruptions. Phivolcs warned that life-threatening hazards could still occur, including ashfall, PDCs, rockfalls, and ejected projectiles.

The six-kilometer permanent danger zone around the volcano remains off-limits. Residents are advised to stay evacuated, while local governments are urged to maintain preparedness for wider evacuations should volcanic activity escalate.

Communities affected by ashfall should wear protective masks or use wet cloths to prevent respiratory issues, especially vulnerable groups such as infants, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions.

Phivolcs also warned of potential syn-eruption lahars and sediment-laden streamflows in case of heavy rainfall.

Aviation authorities have been advised to avoid the vicinity of the volcano due to the risks posed by volcanic ash to aircraft safety.

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