Kanlaon in Negros Island is exhibiting increased volcanic activity after it emitted Aug. 21 the second highest level of sulfur dioxide this year, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said.
Phivolcs director Teresito Bacolcol said Aug. 22 that such volcanic activity suggests that the volcano is becoming more restive.
“The signs we’re observing, such as increased gas emissions, shallow earthquakes, and swelling of the volcano – probably indicate that magma is moving closer to the surface,” Bacolcol told the Philippine News Agency. “So, we should closely watch the volcano.”
Kanlaon is currently under Alert Level 2 (increasing unrest).
Phivolcs on Wednesday afternoon reported an elevated sulfur dioxide (SO2) emission from Kanlaon’s summit crater, reaching 6,720 tonnes.
Kanlaon’s average SO2 flux was 1,273 tonnes/per day before it erupted June 3. Since then, the average has been 3,247 tonnes/day.
On Wednesday, Phivolcs said that SO2 fumes were reported in several barangays of La Carlota City and La Castellana, Negros Occidental.
“This means volcanic gases from Kanlaon are reaching nearby communities,” Bacolcol said.
He said this is significant because breathing in SO2 can cause health problems, especially for people with respiratory issues.
“People in these areas should take precautions to protect themselves from the harmful effects of the gas,” he added.
There was also reported sulfuric stench in some areas around Kanlaon Volcano Aug. 18 and after the volcano erupted June 3.
Philvolcs also reported 15 volcano-tectonic earthquakes generated by rock fracturing zero to eight kilometers beneath the edifice.
The public is advised to be vigilant and avoid entry into the 4 km.-radius permanent danger zone to minimize risks from volcanic hazards, such as pyroclastic density currents, ballistic projectiles, rockfall and others.
Phivolcs also urged aviation authorities to advise pilots to avoid flying close to the volcano’s summit as ash and ballistic fragments from sudden eruption can be hazardous to aircraft. ||
