Mount Kanlaon, located on Negros Island in the central Philippines, erupted briefly on Tuesday morning, sending a plume of ash and debris 4 kilometers (2.4 miles) high into the sky. The eruption, which lasted just over an hour, prompted local authorities to cancel school classes in four nearby villages affected by the ashfall, reports AP/ UNB.
According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), the eruption affected several agricultural villages to the southwest of the volcano. Despite the intense ashfall, no injuries or significant property damage have been reported so far. However, thousands of residents who were displaced during previous eruptions remain in temporary shelters as Kanlaon continues to display signs of unrest.
Teresito Bacolcol, the Philippines' chief volcanologist, emphasized that although there were no new indicators of significant volcanic activity, the threat of a larger eruption remains. "There's always a chance of a larger eruption," Bacolcol said, advising the public to remain vigilant and avoid the 6-kilometer (3.7-mile) danger zone around the volcano.
Mount Kanlaon, standing at 2,435 meters (7,988 feet) tall, is one of the country’s 24 most active volcanoes and has erupted multiple times in recent years. The most recent major eruption occurred in December 2024, when thousands of people were forced to evacuate. Despite Tuesday's eruption being relatively short-lived, authorities are keeping a close watch on the volcano's behavior.
The government has implemented precautionary measures in nearby villages, including the cancellation of school classes, to ensure public safety. While no immediate threats to public health have been reported, PHIVOLCS has urged residents to remain alert and follow evacuation orders if necessary.
The Philippines, situated along the Pacific "Ring of Fire," is prone to frequent volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and typhoons. As such, the government and local authorities are prepared to take swift action to mitigate the impact of natural disasters and protect the lives of citizens.
Local officials are continuing to monitor the volcano, and authorities have advised residents in affected areas to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. Despite the immediate threat appearing low, Mount Kanlaon remains a significant risk, and the authorities are on high alert in anticipation of potential future eruptions.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
