Kanlaon Volcano’s sulfur dioxide emissions increase in 24 hours

Kanlaon Volcano, Photo by Marvin Escander, contributor.

MANILA, Philippines — Kanlaon Volcano on Negros Island recorded a slight increase in sulfur dioxide emissions on Thursday, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).

In its latest 24-hour monitoring report, Phivolcs said Kanlaon emitted 1,422 tons of sulfur dioxide, up from 1,339 tons the previous day.

The volcano also registered eight volcanic earthquakes, doubling the four tremors recorded on Wednesday.

READ: Kanlaon Volcano emits less sulfur dioxide in 24 hours – Phivolcs

Phivolcs added that Kanlaon’s edifice remains inflated and that its plume was obscured by clouds.

Alert Level 3 remains in effect over the volcano, indicating a high level of volcanic unrest.

The agency warned the public of potential volcanic hazards, including:

• Sudden explosive eruptions
• Lava flows or effusions
• Ashfall
• Pyroclastic density currents
• Rockfalls
• Lahars during heavy rainfall

READ: What happens after Kanlaon Volcano eruption? Phivolcs gives 3 scenarios

Phivolcs also reminded residents within a six-kilometer radius of Kanlaon to evacuate from its summit and reiterated that flying any aircraft near the volcano is strictly prohibited.

Meanwhile, local government units in the Negros Island Region recently reported that the P203 million in national government aid promised to them in May has yet to be released. As a result, they continue to struggle in providing support to more than 6,000 evacuees displaced by Kanlaon’s ongoing unrest.

READ: Negros LGUs struggle to aid Kanlaon evacuees

According to Office of Civil Defense regional director Donato Sermeno III, the Department of Budget and Management has yet to release the funds to the local governments of La Carlota City, Himamaylan City, and La Castellana town in Negros Occidental, as well as Canlaon City in Negros Oriental./mcm