Bacolod: Communities near the Kanlaon Volcano must remain vigilant and heed guidance from authorities, the head of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said. “Communities are advised to remain vigilant and to follow the guidance of Phivolcs and their respective LGU (local government unit) disaster risk reduction offices,” Phivolcs Director Teresito Bacolcol told the Philippine News Agency in an interview.

According to Philippines News Agency, residents should be prepared for possible evacuation if necessary, especially in the event of an escalation in volcanic activity. Kanlaon is still under Alert Level 3, indicating a relatively high level of unrest and the possibility of further explosive activity. For the past 24 hours, the volcano generated 16 volcanic earthquakes.

Sulfur dioxide emission was measured at 1,170 tons on Tuesday, which remains above background levels. There were two ash emission events, generating plumes that reached up to 200 meters high. “We strongly remind communities near Kanlaon Volcano to avoid entering the 6-km danger zone due to the risk of sudden explosions,” Bacolcol stated.

In case of ash fall, residents are advised to wear face masks to avoid inhaling fine ash particles, which can cause respiratory irritation.