The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) has intensified monitoring of three active volcanoes in the country.
Kanlaon Volcano has been placed under Alert Level 3, indicating increased unrest and a potential for hazardous eruptions.
Meanwhile, Mayon and Taal Volcanoes remain at Alert Level 1, signifying low-level activity.
Kanlaon Volcano: Alert Level 3
PHIVOLCS reports significant unrest at Kanlaon Volcano, which poses a threat of dangerous eruptions.
Recent observations include:
- Ash Eruptions: Two ash plumes lasting 59 to 65 minutes each.
- Volcanic Earthquakes: Twenty recorded events, with seven tremors lasting up to 92 minutes.
- Sulfur Dioxide Emission: 6,014 tons per day as of December 25, 2024.
- Plume Activity: Continuous steam and ash emissions reaching 400 meters high, drifting west, northwest, and southwest.
- Ground Deformation: Persistent inflation, suggesting magma movement.
Residents are strictly prohibited from entering the 4-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) and are advised to prepare for possible evacuation.
Taal Volcano: Alert Level 1
Taal Volcano shows minor volcanic movements despite its low activity level.
Observations include:
- Volcanic Earthquakes: Four tremors lasting 3 to 6 minutes each.
- Sulfur Dioxide Emission: 1,181 tons per day (as of December 23, 2024).
- Plume Activity: Steam emissions rising 600 meters high, drifting southwest.
- Ground Deformation: Caldera deflation with localized inflation in specific areas.
PHIVOLCS advises the public to avoid the Main Crater and fissures for safety.
Mayon Volcano: Alert Level 1
Mayon Volcano remains relatively quiet, with the following recorded activities:
- Volcanic Earthquakes: One event noted.
- Rockfall Events: 20 incidents recorded.
- Sulfur Dioxide Emission: 1,058 tons per day (as of December 2, 2024).
- Plume Activity: Moderate steam emissions drifting west-southwest and west-northwest.
- Ground Deformation: Minor swelling detected.
Residents are reminded to avoid entering the 6-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) as a precaution.
PHIVOLCS assures the public that it continues to closely monitor these volcanoes.
People in affected areas are urged to remain vigilant, follow local authorities’ advisories, and be prepared for emergencies.
