The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) raised the status of the Kanlaon Volcano in Negros to Alert Level 3 from Alert Level 2.
According to Phivolcs, it was caused by a strong explosion at the summit vent of the volcano that occurred on Monday, December 9, around 3:03 pm. The explosion resulted in the formation of a thick plume that reached a height of 3,000 meters before it gradually dissipated in the west-southwest part of Kanlaon.
Alert Level 3 means there is magmatic unrest, or a sign of a possible magmatic eruption that could cause a more intense eruption.
Phivolcs advised local governments around Kanlaon to enforce the evacuation of residents within the 6-kilometer danger zone. A possible more extensive evacuation is also expected to ensure the safety of residents in the event of a larger explosion.
A 16-minute ash spew, 6 volcano-induced earthquakes, release of 4,638 tons of sulfur, continuous steam emission, and periodic ashfalls hit the southwest earlier recorded around 8 am. Swelling of the volcano was also noted, an indication of continued volcanic activity.
The flight of any aircraft over the top of Kanlaon is also prohibited as an additional precaution.
