44 earthquakes recorded in Kanlaon Volcano in 24 hours

Kanlaon Volcano (Photo by Phivolcs taken on June 23, 2020)

MANILA, Philippines — A total of 44 volcano tectonic earthquakes were recorded from the western flanks of Kanlaon Volcano on Negros Island in the last 24 hours as it emitted white steam-laden plumes that rose 200 meters, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said on Thursday.

Sulfur dioxide (SO2) emission was measured at an average of 237 tonnes per day on Wednesday, based on the 8 a.m. bulletin of Phivolcs. SO2 is a major gas component of magma.

“Ground deformation data from continuous GPS (global positioning system) measurements indicate a slight deflation of the lower and mid slopes since January 2020. Short-term electronic tilt monitoring on the southeastern flanks recorded continuing deflation on the lower slopes but inflation on the mid slopes since April 2020,” Phivolcs added.

The agency said these parameters indicate that hydrothermal or magmatic activity is occurring beneath the edifice.

Alert level 1 remains raised, indicating that the volcano is in “an abnormal condition and has entered a period of unrest.”

On Wednesday, Phivolcs said a total of 38 earthquakes were recorded from the western flanks of the volcano during the 24-hour observation period. It also noted “moderate emission” of white steam-laden plumes that rose 300 meters before drifting southwest.

Entry into the four-kilometer radius permanent danger zone is strictly prohibited due to the possibility of sudden and hazardous steam-driven or phreatic eruptions.

Phivolcs reminded civil aviation authorities to advise pilots to avoid flying close to the volcano’s summit as ejecta as materials spewed into the air from any sudden phreatic eruption can be dangerous to aircraft.