Phivolcs raises Alert Level 2 on Kanlaon

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines — The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) yesterday raised Alert Level 2 status over Kanlaon Volcano in Negros Island, following an increase in volcanic activities in the area, which it described as "moderate level of unrest."

In its issued bulletin yesterday, Phivolcs said "there is a probable intrusion of magma at a depth, which may or may not lead to magmatic eruption."

Kanlaon Volcano's seismic monitoring network recorded 279 deep volcanic earthquakes for the past 24 hours. Since August 18 this year.

Phivolcs said the number of volcanic earthquakes detected per day has continued to increase, although there has been no visible de-gassing or steaming from the active vent this year. But the increased unrest could possibly develop into steam-driven or phreatic explosion at the summit, it added.

Phivolcs advised the local government units, surrounding the area, and the public that entering the four-kilometer radius permanent danger zone is strictly prohibited due to further possibilities of sudden and hazardous steam-driven or phreatic eruptions.

Civil aviation authorities must also advise pilots to avoid flying close to the volcano's summit as ejects from any sudden eruption can be hazardous, Phivolcs said further. (FREEMAN)