• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The restiveness of Kanlaon Volcano continues as the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) recorded four ash eruptions on Tuesday (April 1).
The series of eruptions, starting at 5:57 a.m., generated grayish plumes that rose about 500 meters above the crater before drifting to southwest direction.
On Saturday (March 9), 3.3 hours of ash emission was also logged at the volcano, generating voluminous ash plumes as tall as 1,500 meters from the summit crater, according to Phivolcs.
In its advisory, Phivolcs said ashfall was reported in Sitio Guintubdan and Barangay Araal proper in La Carlota City.
The Office of Civil Defense, meanwhile, urged residents of La Carlota City, Bago City, and other nearby towns to expect ashfall.
Alert Level 3 prevails over Mount Kanlaon since its eruption in Dec. 9 last year.
As of midnight of March 31, Phivolcs recorded 23 volcanic quakes, including a volcanic tremor, which lasted for seven minutes, with sulfur dioxide flux of 2,758 tonnes.
According to the report of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), a total of 7,900 families or 24,891 individuals have been affected by the volcanic activity.
Of these, 1,766 families composed of 5,657 individuals remain in 14 evacuation centers, while 2,553 families, or 8,302 persons, are staying with their relatives as of March 28.
The DSWD also reported that it has provided P106 million in assistance to help support the displaced families, and ensure their immediate needs are meet. | GB
