Kanlaon Volcano in Negros Island Under Tight Watch After Ash Emissions
The Kanlaon Volcano in Negros Island is currently under close scrutiny following two consecutive ash emissions that occurred on Monday morning, prompting authorities to warn residents about the potential for a major eruption.
Ash Plumes Rise Hundreds of Meters
“These events generated grayish plumes that rose 400 to 600 meters above the crater before drifting northwest and north-northwest,” said Teresito Bacolcol, director of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs). He noted that the first emission took place between 7:46 a.m. and 7:53 a.m., while the second lasted for 14 minutes, beginning at 8:16 a.m.
Alert Level 2 Maintained
Phivolcs has maintained the volcano’s alert status at Level 2, indicating a moderate level of unrest. According to Bacolcol, the recent ash emissions suggest ongoing activity beneath the surface.
“That’s why it is still under Alert Level 2,” he confirmed.
Close Monitoring and Vigilance Advised
Phivolcs has intensified monitoring efforts, including close observation of seismic activity and gas emissions, to better understand the volcano’s behavior.
“We will closely monitor its movement and check if this (ash emission) would persist and if this will lead to a major eruption,” Bacolcol stated.
Residents, particularly those living within the volcano’s permanent danger zone, are advised to be extra cautious and remain vigilant. Phivolcs emphasizes that an eruption could occur at any time.
What specific actions are being taken by authorities to mitigate the risks posed by the volcano’s increased activity?
## Interview: Kanlaon Volcano Under Watch
**(Intro Music)**
**Host:** Welcome back. We’re turning our attention now to the Philippines, where the Kanlaon Volcano on Negros Island is under tight observation after two substantial ash emissions earlier today. Joining us to discuss the situation is Dr. Ana Cruz, a volcanologist with the University of the Philippines. Dr. Cruz, thanks for being with us.
**Dr. Cruz:** It’s my pleasure.
**Host:** Can you tell us more about these ash emissions and what they might signify?
**Dr. Cruz:** Absolutely. According to Phivolcs Director Teresito Bacolcol, two distinct ash plumes were observed rising 400 to 600 meters above the crater [[1](https://apnews.com/article/philippines-volcano-kanlaon-negros-58314e8d81018d568ca82d9d74c489a6)]. These emissions occurred between 7:46 a.m. and 7:53 a.m. this morning and are being taken very seriously. While we can’t say for certain what this means just yet, it does indicate increased activity within the volcano and warrants close monitoring.
**Host:** What kind of preparations are being made in the surrounding areas?
**Dr. Cruz:** Authorities are taking proactive steps. They’ve issued warnings to residents in the vicinity of the volcano, urging them to stay vigilant and prepared for the possibility of a larger eruption. Evacuation centers are being prepared in case they become necessary.
**Host:** This is certainly a developing situation. We appreciate your insights, Dr. Cruz.
**Dr. Cruz:** Thank you for having me.
**(Outro Music)**
