Kanlaon Volcano emits over 5K tonnes of sulfur dioxide

Kanlaon Volcano released a total of 5,177 tonnes of sulfur dioxide flux on Sunday, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) said Monday.

PHIVOLCS has warned people against prolonged exposure to sulfur dioxide as the fumes can cause irritation of the eyes, throat, and respiratory tract. Those with health conditions such as asthma, lung disease and heart disease, the elderly, pregnant women and children may be particularly sensitive to the fumes.

This, as PHIVOLCS noted last Monday, October 28, that the volcanic sulfur dioxide (SO2) gas emission from the summit crater of Kanlaon has elevated since the June 3, 2024 eruption.

Moreover, five earthquakes were also recorded at the volcano located on Negros Island.

The volcano also emitted a “voluminous” 350-meter tall plume, which drifted southwest. Its edifice also remained inflated. 

Alert Level 2 remains raised at Kanlaon Volcano due to an “increased unrest” following its explosive eruption in June.

Entry into the volcano’s 4-kilometer radius permanent danger zone, and flying any aircraft close to it are prohibited.

Sudden steam-driven or phreatic eruptions may also occur, PHIVOLCS said. —Giselle Ombay/KG, GMA Integrated News