Kanlaon eruption: DOH urges residents near volcano to take precautions

Kanlaon Volcano, or Mt. Kanlaon on Negros Island, erupts on Monday evening, June 3, 2024, producing a 5-kilometer plume and prompting the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) to raise the volcano’s alert status to Level 2. | PHOTO: Ethan Asentista-Khoo

MANILA, Philippines—The Department of Health (DOH) encourages residents near Mt. Kanlaon to protect their health and avoid getting ill, advising them of precautions following the volcano’s eruption on Monday evening.

The DOH said people should wear masks and close gaps in the house to prevent ash and toxic gases from entering.

“Protect your lungs from ashfall and any toxic gases. Close doors and windows; use wet curtains or clothes to cover gaps where ash and gases could enter. Wear face masks properly, or use a wet cloth to cover your nose and mouth,” the health department’s advisory reads.

READ: Kanlaon Volcano erupts; Phivolcs raises Alert Level 2

The DOH likewise urged people to protect their eyes from ashes and dust by wearing safety eyewear and to consult a medical professional if necessary.

“Protect your eyes from ashes and dust. Wear safety goggles if available. Do not use contact lenses; switch to glasses for now. Do not rub your eyes; if irritated, rinse them with clean, lukewarm running water,” the advisory states.

Residents were further reminded to ensure their food was clean and safe and to follow the government if it ordered an evacuation.

READ: Mt. Kanlaon eruption: LIVE UPDATES

DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said their regional hub has already been on alert, while hospitals close to Mt. Kanlaon, also known as Kanlaon Volcano, have been under Code White.

“Since yesterday, the DOH Western Visayas Center for Health Development (CHD) has been sending face masks, safety goggles, hygiene kits, jerry water cans, and disaster relief tents to affected areas near Kanlaon Volcano. Nearby hospitals have also been placed on Code White. Mag-ingat po tayo, at makinig sa abiso ng ating local government officials,” he said in a statement.

(Let us take care of it and listen to the advice of our local government officials.)

On Monday evening, Mt. Kanlaon had a phreatic eruption that lasted for six minutes, sending a 5,000-meter high plume.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) immediately raised Alert Level 2 over Mt. Kanlaon, which is located on the Negros Island.

Phivolcs explained that a volcano is placed under Alert Level 2 because increased volcanic earthquakes, steam and gas emissions, and ground deformation may occur.