Concerned government agencies are closely monitoring possible lahar flow from Mt. Kanlaon in Negros Island amid continuous rains in surrounding areas.

“Lahar flow is also constantly monitored that may affect low-lying areas surrounding the volcano,” the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council-Negros Island Region (RDRRMC-NIR) said in a situation report yesterday.

Kanlaon Volcano remains under Alert Level 3 or magmatic unrest, with increased chances of short-lived moderately explosive eruptions that could generate life-threatening volcanic hazards.

“Increased vigilance against potential syn-eruption lahars and sediment-laden stream flows in channels draining the edifice is strongly advised should intense rains occur during eruptive unrest,” the report said.

As of 5:00 p.m. yesterday, Negros Occidental’s Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Emergency Operations Center (PDRRMC-EOC) raised its alert status to red due to the prevalence of southwest monsoon and Tropical Depression “Dante.”

“Concurrently, with the prevailing Alert Level 3 over Kanlaon Volcano, the red alert status at the PDRRMC-EOC shall remain in effect for close monitoring and coordination,” it added.

The latest report of the Department of Social Welfare and Development showed that 1,277 families, or 4,148 persons, are taking temporary shelter in 18 evacuation centers in La Castellana town and the cities of Bago and La Carlota in Negros Occidental, and Canlaon City in Negros Oriental.

In La Castellana, 456 families, or 1,463 individuals, are still staying in eight evacuation centers. (PNA)