Kanlaon Volcano records 16 quakes –PHIVOLCS

Sixteen volcanic earthquakes were monitored at the Kanlaon Volcano on Negros Island since Saturday midnight, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) on Sunday.

PHIVOLCS said the Kanlaon Volcano also emitted 4,992 tonnes of sulfur dioxide flux on Saturday.

It also generated a “voluminous” 500-meter tall of plumes, which drifted south. 

The volcano’s edifice also remained inflated.

The state seismic monitoring agency Kanlaon Volcano is currently under Alert Level 2 due to an “increased unrest” following its explosive eruption on June 3.

Authorities prohibit entry inside the volcano’s 4-kilometer radius permanent danger zone as well as flying any aircraft close to it. Sudden steam-driven or phreatic eruptions may also occur. 

Meanwhile, the Taal Volcano in Batangas had one phreatic eruption lasting three-minutes long on Saturday.

It also released 1,510 tonnes of sulfur dioxide flux on Saturday, while an upwelling of hot volcanic fluids in the main crater lake was observed.

A “moderate” 900-meter tall of plume was also emitted, which drifted southeast.

PHIVOLCS said the Taal Caldera remained to have long-term deflation, while the general northern and southeastern flanks of the Taal Volcano Island have short-term inflation.

Taal Volcano is currently under Alert Level 1 with a "low-level unrest."

Entry into Taal Volcano Island which is considered a permanent danger zone, and flying any aircraft close to the volcano are prohibited.

PHIVOLCS also warned that hazards such as steam-driven or phreatic or gas-driven explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas may occur. —Giselle Ombay/RF, GMA Integrated News