Evacuations are underway in the central Philippines as approximately 87,000 residents are being moved to safety following a volcanic eruption. Mount Kanlaon, located on Negros Island, erupted, sending a massive ash plume and hot gas flows down its slopes.
Fortunately, there have been no immediate reports of injuries from this recent eruption, but authorities have elevated the volcano’s alert status. This increase in alert signals the likelihood of more powerful eruptions in the near future.
The volcanic ash has spread to a wide area, including Antique province, which is situated over 124 miles away from the volcano, creating visibility issues and health concerns. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology has noted that the ashfall poses risks to local air quality.
Due to the eruption, several flights were canceled, including domestic trips and a flight to Singapore, as the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines took precautions in the affected areas.
The urgent evacuations primarily affect towns and villages close to the volcanic slopes, especially in La Castellana, where authorities are moving nearly 47,000 people from within a 6-kilometer danger zone. As of Tuesday morning, more than 6,000 individuals have already sought refuge in evacuation centers, while others have stayed with relatives in La Castellana.
Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has assured that the government is prepared to assist those displaced by the eruption. He mentioned that his social welfare secretary was dispatched to the region to coordinate support for the affected families.
Government scientists are closely monitoring the situation, particularly the air quality, as they assess the potential need for more evacuations due to the risk posed by toxic volcanic gases. Meanwhile, disaster response teams are quickly establishing evacuation centers and procuring essential supplies such as food and hygiene items, especially with the holiday season approaching.
Schools in vulnerable areas have been closed, and a nighttime curfew has been imposed to ensure public safety. The recently recorded eruption lasted nearly four minutes and generated a fast-moving pyroclastic flow, which is extremely dangerous.
Historically, Mount Kanlaon is one of the Philippines’ most active volcanoes, and its previous eruptions have had severe repercussions. The country, situated in the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” is not only known for its volcanic activity but also experiences numerous typhoons annually, highlighting its vulnerability to natural disasters.
