Authorities in the Philippines have mandated the evacuation of residents living near Kanlaon volcano, located in the western part of the country, following a significant eruption that propelled a 5km (three-mile) ash plume into the atmosphere.
The eruption, which lasted six minutes on Monday, triggered a “strong earthquake” and led to the suspension of work and school activities in nearby Canlaon City.
Additionally, three airlines were forced to cancel 32 flights on Tuesday.
“Go down to your respective evacuation centers, be vigilant, and prepare important things such as water and food,” urged Jose Chubasco Cardenas, mayor of Canlaon City in Negros Oriental province.
On Tuesday, government officials warned of the potential for additional eruptions, which could bring hazardous ash fall and a sulphuric odor.
They also cautioned that rivers downstream could face flash floods, mudflows, and other hazards.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) raised its alert level, indicating the possibility of further “explosive eruptions” and advised people to be cautious of ash particles.
“We advise people to wear face masks to protect themselves from volcanic ash,” stated Teresito Bacolcol, chief of the state seismology agency, during a local radio broadcast.
In Negros Occidental province, over 700 individuals have sought refuge in evacuation centers, according to Governor Jose Lacson.
“We advise them to stay there, and for those not yet in evacuation centres, I hope they can reconsider,” he added.
As of Tuesday, government agencies have not reported any missing persons, injuries, or fatalities related to the eruption.
Response teams have been deployed to assist residents in the affected areas, ensuring their safe relocation, the state civil defense agency reported in a statement late Monday.
Kanlaon is one of the Philippines’ approximately two dozen active volcanoes, with its last eruption occurring in December 2017.
The Philippines is situated in the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for its frequent volcanic activity and earthquakes.
