155 volcanic quakes recorded around Kanlaon

MANILA, Philippines — At least 155 volcanic earthquakes were recorded around Mt. Kanlaon on Negros island in the past 24 hours.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said moderate emission of white steam-laden plumes that rose 1,000 meters above the summit were also observed.

Phivolcs said ground deformation data indicated slight inflation of the edifice of the volcano since December 2015.

Kanlaon remains under alert level 2, which means the volcano is exhibiting a moderate level of unrest.

“There is probable intrusion of magma at depth which may or may not lead to a magmatic eruption,” Phivolcs said.

The agency said entry into the four-kilometer radius permanent danger zone is strictly prohibited due to possible sudden and hazardous steam-driven explosions.

Pilots were advised to avoid flying close to the crater of the volcano due to sudden phreatic eruption that can be hazardous to aircraft.

On Saturday, a phreatic or steam-driven explosion was observed in Kanlaon, covering several barangays in Negros Occidental with ash.