Continuous degassing seen at Kanlaon Volcano

Kanlaon Volcano continued to degas and occasionally release volcanic ash, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) on Wednesday.

Based on PHIVOLCS’s 24-hour observation bulletin, the volcano emitted another “voluminous” 800-meter tall plume that drifted north and southwest. 

It also generated 2,125 tonnes of sulfur dioxide on Tuesday, November 12. 

Seven volcanic earthquakes were also recorded at Kanlaon Volcano, which is located in Negros Island. 

Kanlaon Volcano has been observed to be degassing since October 19, and occasionally has weak ash emission from its summit crater.

Ash samples from the emissions on October 19, November 2, and November 5 were subjected to microscopic examination and these showed that the ash was composed mainly of pulverized old rock within the edifice and not of material from new magma.

Alert Level 2 is currently raised at Kanlaon Volcano due to an “increased unrest” following its explosive eruption on June 3. 

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

The volcano may have sudden steam-driven or phreatic eruptions, as well as precursory magmatic activity.

—VAL, GMA Integrated News