Kanlaon volcano raises Alert Level to 2, public advised to stay out of danger zone

THE Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS) has raised the alert level for Kanlaon Volcano to 2, following a significant increase in volcanic activity. The agency has advised the public to avoid entering the four-kilometer radius Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) surrounding the volcano.

Since midnight on September 10, the Kanlaon Volcano Network has recorded 288 volcano-tectonic (VT) earthquakes. These earthquakes, caused by rock fracturing, indicate a growing pressure beneath the volcano as magma rises towards the surface.

Residents in nearby barangays of Bago and La Carlota cities have reported hearing rumbling sounds and smelling strong sulfur fumes. This further reinforces the heightened activity observed at Kanlaon.

In response to the escalating situation, DOST-PHIVOLCS issued Kanlaon Volcano Advisory 10 at 11:00 am on September 10. The advisory recommends that communities downwind of the crater take precautions in case of ash fall events. Residents are advised to cover their nose and mouth with a damp, clean cloth or dust mask to minimize exposure to ash particles.