Volcano-tectonic (VT) earthquakes have already reached a total of 288, according to a DOST-PHIVOLCS advisory, on increased seismic activity at Kanlaon Volcano, at 11 a.m. on September 10, 2024. 

“A total of two hundred eighty-eight (288) volcano-tectonic or VT earthquakes have been recorded by the Kanlaon Volcano Network since 10:30 p.m. of 09 September 2024,” the advisory reads. 

PHIVOLCS said that the events were generated “between 0 to 9 kilometers depths beneath the north-eastern flanks of the volcanic edifice and the strongest events were felt at Intensity II in some barangays of Canlaon City, Negros Oriental.”

“Rumbling sounds were reported by some residents of Bago City. Strong sulfur fumes have been reported in a few barangays in Bago, La Carlota and Canlaon Cities. VT earthquakes are generated by rock fracturing processes and the increase in VT activity strongly indicates progressive rock-fracturing beneath the volcano as rising magma drives a path towards the surface,” PHIVOLCS added. 

PHIVOLCS reminds the public that Alert Level 2 (increasing unrest) prevails over Kanlaon, but that current seismic activity may lead to eruptive unrest and an increase in the Alert Level. 

“The public is strongly advised to be ready and vigilant, and to avoid entry into the four (4) kilometer-radius Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) to minimize risks from volcanic hazards such as pyroclastic density currents, ballistic projectiles, rockfall and others. In case of ash fall events that may affect communities downwind of Kanlaon’s crater, people should cover their nose and mouth with a damp, clean cloth or dust mask. Civil aviation authorities must also advise pilots to avoid flying close to the volcano’s summit as ash and ballistic fragments from sudden eruption can be hazardous to aircraft. Communities living beside river systems on the southern and western slopes, especially those that have already experienced lahars and muddy streamflows, are advised to take precautionary measures when heavy rainfall over the volcano has been forecast or has begun,” the advisory further said. 

DOST-PHIVOLCS assures close monitoring of Kanlaon Volcano and that any new development will be immediately communicated to all concerned stakeholders.