MANILA, Philippines — Kanlaon Volcano continues to operate under Alert Level 2, signaling heightened unrest, following the release of superheated gas observed earlier this week.
Recent Volcanic Activity
Monitoring data covering the 24-hour period from midnight on January 29 to midnight on January 30 revealed ongoing emissions from the volcano’s summit. Grayish plumes of superheated gas rose approximately 900 meters above the crater and drifted northwest, indicating persistent magmatic activity beneath the surface.
Key Observations
In the past day, a single emission event lasted about three and a half hours, accompanied by three volcanic earthquakes. Sulfur dioxide emissions measured 1,662 tonnes per day as of January 6, with plumes previously reaching 800 meters and shifting in various directions. Ground deformation studies also show inflation of the volcano’s structure, pointing to continued unrest.
Authorities advise against entering the 4-kilometer permanent danger zone around the volcano or flying aircraft nearby, due to risks of sudden eruptions or other hazards. Kanlaon, located on the border of Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental, remains under close watch for any changes in activity.
