Ashfall hits 54 barangays as Kanlaon erupts anew

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines — A moderate explosive eruption from Kanlaon Volcano on Negros Island caused ashfall events that blanketed 54 barangays yesterday.

Aside from ashfall, residents had to deal with the stench of sulfur that came with the eruption, which also produced plumes that rose 4.5 kilometers above the summit crater.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) noted incandescent pyroclastic density currents descending down the southern slopes, about two kilometers from the crater.

Ballistic fragments were thrown around the crater, burning vegetation near the volcano’s summit.

Despite the moderate explosive eruption, Kanlaon remains under Alert Level 3, Phivolcs said.

If the volcano’s activities escalate further, Phivolcs may raise the alert to Level 4 and extend the danger zone from six to 10 kilometers.

The provincial disaster risk reduction and management council reported that 49 barangays in Bago City, La Castellana, La Carlota, San Enrique, Pontevedra and Hinigaran were hit by ashfall.

Residents have been advised to wear face masks and avoid staying outdoors.

Phivolcs director Teresito Bacolcol said that plumes emitted by Kanlaon consist of ash, dust and volcanic fragments.

Pilots have been advised to avoid flying aircraft near the volcano. — Rudy Santos