MANILA, Philippines — On Tuesday, volcanic activity was observed from Mount Kanlaon, a potentially dangerous volcano on a central Philippine island. The eruption, which occurred early in the morning, sent a column of ash and debris soaring approximately 4 kilometers (2.4 miles) into the atmosphere. As a precautionary measure, local authorities decided to suspend classes in four villages to protect students from the falling ash.
According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, the eruption lasted a little over an hour and resulted in ash dispersal over at least four farming communities situated southwest of the volcano. Fortunately, there have been no reported injuries or property damage resulting from the eruption. This incident follows Kanlaon’s previous eruption last December, which had already forced many villagers to evacuate. As of Tuesday, these communities continued to seek shelter in emergency facilities due to the ongoing volcanic activity.
Teresito Bacolcol, the head of Philippine volcanologists, noted that despite the eruption, other significant signs of increased volcanic activity, such as clusters of volcanic tremors, were not present. This has kept the alert level for Kanlaon at level 3, indicating “high volcanic unrest.” The alert system has a maximum level of 5, signifying an “ongoing hazardous eruption.” Bacolcol has urged vigilance among the public and has cautioned people to maintain a safe distance, particularly steering clear of a 6-kilometer (3.7-mile) danger zone around the volcano area.
Standing at 2,435 meters (7,988 feet), Mount Kanlaon ranks among the Philippines’ 24 most active volcanoes. Its unpredictable nature was highlighted in 1996 when an unexpected eruption resulted in the tragic deaths of three hikers near its summit, while several others had to be rescued.
The Philippines is geographically situated on the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” making it susceptible to both earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Aside from these geological challenges, the country also endures around 20 typhoons and storms annually, establishing it as one of the most disaster-prone nations globally.