Kanlaon Volcano had 28 “ashing” events, with plumes reaching heights of up to 800 meters above the summit over the weekend, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported yesterday.
“Emission episodes lasted four minutes to one hour and 18 minutes, and generated grayish plumes that rose 300 to 800 meters above the summit before drifting to the general west,” Phivolcs said.
The ash emission, observed on Saturday morning, November 9, was “generally quiet,” occurring “without seismic or infrasound signals,” it added.
Ash fall traces and sulfur dioxide (SO2) fumes were reported at Sitio Bais in La Carlota City’s Barangay Yubo, and La Castellana town’s Barangay Sag-ang.
Phivolcs said the volcanic ash was composed of “mainly pulverized old rock within the edifice,” and “not of material from new magma.”
The recent volcanic SO2 emissions from Kanlaon’s crater averaged 4,701 tons per day.
Kanlaon has been continuously emitting elevated gas concentrations, with a current average rate of 4,299 tons per day since its phreatic eruption on June 3.
Alert Level 2 remains at the volcano, indicating increasing unrest.
While the current unrest, potentially leading to eruptions, Phivolcs warns that the alert level may escalate.
The residents near Kanlaon are advised to avoid entering the four-kilometer permanent danger zone, due to risks of pyroclastic density currents, ballistic projectiles and rockfalls.
Those residing near rivers on Kanlaon’s slopes should remain alert for potential lahars or mudflows, particularly with the onset of heavy rainfall.
Safety advisory
Amidst Kanlaon Volcano’s increased seismic activities and SO2 emissions, the Department of Health in Western Visayas’ (DOH-6) Center for Health Development issued an advisory to help residents manage health risks associated with volcanic ash fall.
The DOH-6 emphasizes taking preventive measures in the event of an ash fall, which includes:
* Staying indoors as much as possible to reduce ash exposure. Outdoor activities should be minimized, and only necessary errands should be attended to.
* Preparing an emergency bag which contains basic essentials, such as bottled drinking water, non-perishable food, clothing, a first aid kit, and necessary medications.
* Staying updated with advisories from local authorities and disaster response teams which will help residents make informed decisions.
* Cleaning roofs from ash fall.
* Washing hands thoroughly before preparing food or eating. Fresh produce, such as fruits and vegetables, should be rinsed with clean water to remove any ash to prevent food contamination.
* Drinking water should be checked to ensure it’s safe, and all food items should be stored in tightly sealed containers.
* Wearing protective masks if outdoor exposure to ash fall is unavoidable.
* Using wet curtains as window barriers can help keep ash out of homes.
* Using protective goggles instead of contact lenses, as these can reduce irritation from ash particles.
* Refraining from rubbing the eyes, which can worsen irritation. If ash gets into the eyes, rinse them with clean water. Medical consultation should be sought if irritation or vision problems persist.
* For those with respiratory conditions, such as asthma or allergies, having medication on hand is essential.
* Individuals experiencing breathing issues are encouraged to seek medical assistance promptly./ With Jen Baylon / WDJ