PHIVOLCS: 2 volcanic earthquakes recorded over Kanlaon Volcano

Kanlaon Volcano had two volcanic earthquakes on Sunday, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) said in its bulletin on Monday.

This is lower compared to the 13 volcanic earthquakes recorded on Saturday.

On September 12, PHIVOLCS said Kanlaon Volcano emitted a total of 10,880 tons of sulfur dioxide gas.

The volcano edifice remains inflated.

Alert Level 2 is maintained over Kanlaon Volcano, which means there is an increased unrest. Sudden steam-driven or phreatic eruptions may occur in the volcano.

Under Alert Level 2, entry into the four-kilometer radius Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) and the flying of any aircraft close to the volcano are prohibited.

On September 11, sulfuric fumes were reported in Barangay San Miguel in La Carlota City; Barangay and Barangay Pula in Canlaon City; Barangay Codcod in San Carlos City; and Barangay Inolingan in Moises Padilla.

“Prolonged exposure to volcanic SO2, especially of communities within direct reach of accumulation from plumes during low wind conditions, can cause irritation of the eyes, throat, and respiratory tract,” PHIVOLCS said.

“People who may be particularly sensitive are those with health conditions such as asthma, lung disease and heart disease, the elderly, pregnant women and children,” it added.

Due to this, PHIVOLCS advised affected residents to cover their mouth and nose with a damp clean cloth or dusk mask.

Some residents in affected barangays were advised to evacuate.

PHIVOLCS chief Teresito Bacolcol earlier said Kanlaon Volcano may have an eruption following a series of volcanic earthquakes.

Kanlaon Volcano’s eruption last June 3 lasted six minutes and emitted plumes that rose to 5,000 meters. — Joviland Rita/RSJ, GMA Integrated News