Kanlaon Emits Massive Sulfur Dioxide Cloud Amid Alert Level 3 Status
KANLAON – The Kanlaon Volcano released over 1,400 tons of sulfur dioxide in just 24 hours, signaling continued volcanic unrest, according to Phivolcs.
Kanlaon Volcano, located on Negros Island, remains under close watch after releasing over 1,400 tons of sulfur dioxide within a 24-hour period, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs). The agency reported on Tuesday that the volcano emitted a total of 1,494 tons of the gas, a noticeable drop compared to the 3,958 tons recorded just a day earlier.
Despite the decrease in sulfur dioxide emissions, Kanlaon continues to exhibit heightened volcanic activity. Phivolcs noted an increase in seismic activity, recording five volcanic earthquakes, up from three previously. The volcano’s summit plume remained obscured, and its edifice showed signs of inflation—an indication of potential magma movement beneath the surface.
The volcano’s status remains at Alert Level 3, signifying intense volcanic unrest. This classification suggests that an eruption is still possible and could occur with little or no warning.
In response, Phivolcs has reiterated its call for residents within the six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) to evacuate. The public is also advised to stay alert for hazardous events such as sudden explosions, lava flows, ashfall, pyroclastic density currents, rockfalls, and lahar flows, especially during periods of heavy rain.
Air travel near Kanlaon is strictly prohibited due to the potential for ash clouds and other volcanic hazards that could threaten aircraft safety.
The volcano’s alert level was initially raised to Level 3 in December 2024 after a series of explosive eruptions signaled renewed activity. Since then, Phivolcs has maintained a close watch on the volcano’s behavior, urging residents and local government units to remain vigilant.
With the situation still volatile, authorities emphasize the importance of staying informed through official channels and adhering to evacuation and safety protocols to minimize risk from Kanlaon’s ongoing unrest.
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