The Philippine government has called for the evacuation of villages near Mount Kanlaon following a powerful eruption on Monday.
Located on the island of Negros, the volcano released a massive cloud of ash and volcanic gases into the atmosphere, according to AFP.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) reported, “At 3:03 PM local time (9:03 AM CET), an explosive eruption occurred at the summit of Kanlaon Volcano.” Authorities have advised local governments to evacuate within a six-kilometer radius around the volcano and prepare for additional evacuations if the activity intensifies.
Active volcano in the pacific ring of fire
Kanlaon, standing 2,465 meters above sea level, is one of the Philippines’ 24 active volcanoes and part of the Pacific Ring of Fire.
Social media footage captured the dramatic scene of volcanic plumes rising above the crater. PHIVOLCS noted that the ash cloud reached an altitude of 3,000 meters, with glowing debris falling along the volcano’s southeastern slope. Officials warned that further explosive eruptions remain possible.
History of activity
Kanlaon has been showing signs of increased activity since September, when thousands of residents were evacuated after the volcano released massive amounts of harmful gases in a single day. Over the past nine years, the volcano has erupted 15 times. In August 1996, an eruption claimed the lives of three tourists.
