Kanlaon Volcano Eruption Prompts Red Alert

According to the reports on Tuesday (10 December), Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson declared a red alert status on Tuesday (10 December), following the explosive eruption of Kanlaon Volcano the previous afternoon. The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC), chaired by Lacson, raised the alert from blue to red due to the volcano’s intensified activity. A memorandum was issued activating response clusters to coordinate emergency efforts, including logistics, law and order, food distribution, health services, and education support.

According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), the eruption produced a massive volcanic plume that rose 3,000 meters above the summit vent. Pyroclastic density currents flowed down the slopes, signaling heightened volcanic activity. As a result, Phivolcs raised Kanlaon’s Alert Level to 3, indicating intensified magmatic unrest and the possibility of more explosive eruptions.

Residents have been strictly prohibited from entering the 4-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) around the volcano due to potential life-threatening hazards. Aircraft have also been advised to avoid flying near Kanlaon because of ash emissions and possible sudden phreatic eruptions. Local authorities monitor the situation closely and urge residents to remain vigilant and prepared.

Emergency response teams have been mobilized to provide humanitarian aid, manage evacuation centers, and enforce safety protocols. The PDRRMC coordinates with national and local agencies to ensure timely assistance and minimize risks. With the threat of further eruptions looming, authorities emphasize the importance of adhering to safety advisories to prevent casualties and damage.

References

• Kanlaon Volcano Eruption Triggers Red Alert Status