Kanlaon Volcano Remains Unstable, Potential Danger Zone Expansion Looms
Kanlaon Volcano in Negros Island continues to display signs of unrest, prompting concerns from authorities about potential hazards. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) reported 15 volcanic earthquakes within a 24-hour period, along with the emission of 7,198 tonnes of sulfur dioxide on December 22nd. The volcano’s plume remained obscured, and its edifice showed signs of inflation. Following a december 9th eruption, PHIVOLCS has maintained alert Level 3 for Kanlaon, indicating a high level of magmatic unrest. This has led to the advice of evacuating residents within a six-kilometer radius of the volcano’s summit. Adding to the concern, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) in Region 6 has suggested that the permanent danger zone around kanlaon might be expanded to encompass a 10-kilometer radius. This potential extension is being considered due to the risk of lahars, volcanic mudflows, triggered by heavy rainfall. Authorities warn that the volcano’s unpredictable nature could lead to sudden explosive eruptions, lava flows, ashfall, pyroclastic density currents, rockfalls, and lahars, especially during periods of heavy rain. “Possible hazards that may occur include sudden explosive eruption, lava flow or effusion, ashfall, pyroclastic density current, rockfall, and lahars during heavy rains,” said Giselle Ombay of GMA Integrated News.## Kanlaon Volcano: An Interview with PHIVOLCS
**Archyde Interview:**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for taking the time to speak with us today. The situation with Kanlaon Volcano remains tense. Could you provide an update on its current activity?
**PHIVOLCS Representative:** We are closely monitoring Kanlaon Volcano, which has shown continued signs of unrest. In the past 24 hours alone, we recorded 15 volcanic earthquakes and a significant sulfur dioxide emission of over 7,000 tonnes. This, coupled with edifice inflation, indicates persistent magmatic activity within the volcano.
**Interviewer:** This activity follows a minor eruption on December 9th. What does this mean for the residents living near the volcano?
**PHIVOLCS Representative:** The Alert Level 3 remains in place, signifying a high level of unrest. We strongly advise residents within a six-kilometer radius of the summit to evacuate. Their safety is our utmost priority.
**Interviewer:** there’s talk about expanding the permanent danger zone around Kanlaon. Can you elaborate on this?
**PHIVOLCS Representative:** The Office of Civil Defense is considering expanding the danger zone to a ten-kilometer radius. This is a precautionary measure due to the risk of lahars, which are volcanic mudflows that can be triggered by heavy rainfall.
**Interviewer:** what specific hazards should residents be most aware of in the coming days and weeks?
**PHIVOLCS Representative:** Kanlaon’s behavior is unpredictable. Sudden explosive eruptions,lava flows,ashfall,pyroclastic density currents,rockfalls,and lahars are all potential hazards,particularly during periods of heavy rain.
**Interviewer:** Given the potential dangers, what messages do you have for those living in the vicinity of Kanlaon Volcano?
**PHIVOLCS Representative:** We urge residents to remain vigilant and follow the instructions of local authorities. Stay informed about the latest updates from PHIVOLCS and heed evacuation orders. Preparedness is key to mitigating the risks associated with volcanic activity.
**Interviewer:** This situation highlights the importance of community preparedness in the face of natural disasters. What role can individuals and communities play in staying safe?
**PHIVOLCS Representative:**
Communities need to have disaster preparedness plans in place. This includes knowing evacuation routes, having emergency kits ready, and participating in drills. Individual responsibility is also crucial.
**Readers, what steps are you taking to be prepared for potential volcanic hazards in your area? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.**
## Kanlaon Volcano: An Interview with PHIVOLCS
**Archyde:** Good morning,and thank you for joining us today.the situation at Kanlaon Volcano remains concerning. Can you tell our readers what the latest developments are and what they meen for the safety of nearby residents?
**PHIVOLCS Representative:** thank you for having me. as you mentioned, Kanlaon continues to demonstrate signs of unrest. We are observing persistent volcanic earthquakes, increased sulfur dioxide emissions, and ground deformation indicating inflation.These are all indicators of pressurized magma accumulating beneath the surface.
**Archyde:** You mentioned an alert level 3, which signifies a heightened state of magmatic unrest. What specific dangers does this pose to the community, particularly those residing near the volcano?
**PHIVOLCS Representative:** Our alert Level 3 signifies a high probability of an eruption. This could manifest in several ways, including sudden explosive eruptions, lava flows, ashfall, and possibly pyroclastic density currents. we are also particularly concerned about lahars, volcanic mudflows, triggered by heavy rainfall.
**Archyde:** The Office of Civil defense has suggested expanding the permanent danger zone around Kanlaon from six to ten kilometers.What is the rationale behind this proposed extension?
**PHIVOLCS Representative:** The potential expansion is a precautionary measure based on the increased risk of lahars. With the intensified volcanic activity, the likelihood of lahars, especially during periods of heavy rain, increases substantially. A larger danger zone ensures a wider margin of safety for communities potentially affected by these mudflows.
**Archyde:** What specific steps are being taken to protect the peopel living within the danger zone?
**PHIVOLCS Representative:** We are working closely with local authorities and disaster response agencies to ensure the safety of residents.This includes:
* **Continuous monitoring:** We are maintaining constant surveillance of the volcano’s activity through seismic monitoring, gas emissions analysis, and ground deformation measurements.
* **Community education:** we are actively conducting details drives to educate residents about the potential hazards associated with volcanic activity, and also safety protocols in case of an eruption.
* **Evacuation preparations:** We are working with authorities to ensure that evacuation procedures are in place and that residents are aware of designated evacuation routes and shelters.
**Archyde:** What message would you like to convey to the public, particularly those living in the vicinity of Kanlaon?
**PHIVOLCS Representative:** We urge residents within the danger zone to heed the warnings and recommendations issued by authorities. Prepare an emergency kit, familiarize yourselves with evacuation procedures, and stay informed about the volcano’s activity through official channels. Your safety is our top priority, and we are committed to providing timely and accurate information to help you make informed decisions.
**Archyde:** Thank you for your time and insights today. We wish you and your team continued success in monitoring Kanlaon and keeping the public safe.
You may also wish to include:
* **Closing statement**: Reiterate the importance of following official guidance from PHIVOLCS and local authorities.
* **Links to resources**: Provide links to the PHIVOLCS website,emergency preparedness guides,and othre relevant sources of information.
