Kanlaon Volcano Calm After Eruption; Public Cautioned Against Ash and Gas

BACOLOD CITY — Following a brief eruption on Monday night, Kanlaon Volcano has shown no further eruptive activity, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs). However, the authorities continue to warn residents about potential hazards from volcanic ash and gases.

According to Philippines News Agency, while the volcano has been quiet since the six-minute eruption, the risks from sulfur dioxide emissions remain a concern. “Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is harmful as it could irritate the eyes, throat, and respiratory tract. The severity would depend on gas concentrations and durations of exposure,” Bacolcol explained during a televised briefing on Tuesday. He highlighted that individuals with respiratory conditions, such as asthma, as well as children, the elderly, and pregnant women, are especially vulnerable to the effects of SO2.

Residents in Bago City, La Carlota City, La Castellana, and Canlaon City reported smelling sulfur and experiencing ash fall on Monday. Bacolcol noted, “No other report of sulfuric smell was received today. It rained after the eruption yesterday so the SO2 dissipated easily.”

The recent eruption, which produced a 5,000-meter-tall plume, was reminiscent of past activity, such as the December 9, 2017 eruption that generated a 4-kilometer eruption column. Bacolcol also recalled an obscured eruption on December 20, 2017, which was not visible due to cloud cover but was accompanied by 412 volcanic earthquakes within 24 hours.

On Tuesday, Phivolcs recorded only 43 volcanic earthquakes at Kanlaon from 2 a.m. to noon. Bacolcol mentioned that further data analysis is required to determine whether the latest eruption was phreatic, involving water contacting hot volcanic materials, or magmatic, driven by the release of magma and volcanic gases.

Phivolcs continues to caution residents against entering the 4-km permanent danger zone around Kanlaon Volcano to avoid risks from sudden phreatic eruptions, rockfalls, and landslides.