Kanlaon volcano under alert level 1

MANILA, Philippines - Mount Kanlaon on Negros Occidental on Tuesday has been placed under alert level 1 as it enters a period of unrest.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) raised the alert level of the volcano from alert level 0 to alert level 1 as it is at an abnormal condition.

A steam explosion was recorded from the volcano's crater for eight minutes, based on visual observation, on Monday evening.

According to Phivolcs, the Kanalaon seismic network recorded an explosion signal beginning at 9:30 p.m. on Monday and lasted for 30 minutes.

"The explosion produced a 1.0 – 1.5 kilometer-high white plume above the summit before drifting towards the southwest. Audible rumbling sound was heard in Sitio Mananawin and Sitio Upper Pantao, Brgy. Pula, Canlaon City, Negros Oriental," Phivolcs said.

Four volcanic earthquakes have been recorded during the past week. Continuous emission of steam with minor ash from the summit crater has been observed on Tuesday morning, according to Phivolcs.

"The local government units and the public are strictly reminded that entry into the 4-kilometer radius Permanent Danger Zone is strictly prohibited due to the further possibilities of sudden and hazardous steam-driven or phreatic eruptions," the agency said.

Pilots are advised to avoid flying close to the volcano's summit as any sudden phreatic eruption can be hazardous to aircraft.

Phivolcs is continuously monitoring the activity and development of the volcano. - Patricia Lourdes Viray