The superheated plume emitted by Kanlaon volcano is a common occurrence, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) clarified.

Superheated plume activity at the crater of Kanlaon was recorded by the infrared channels of the Observation Station of the volcano at Upper Pantao, Canlaon City between 6:41 p.m. and 7:13 p.m. on January 28.

Mari-Andylene Quintia, resident volcanologist at the Kanlaon Observatory based in La Carlota, earlier said that they noted the same emissions prior to the December 2024 and May and October 2025 explosive eruptions of Kanlaon.

But Quintia later clarified that “they have not yet established superheated plume as a precursor.”

She added that “the superheated plume or gas indicates that magma is intruding and waiting beneath the edifice.”

“We are posting the video of the superheated plume as a reminder that despite the short-term decreases in activity, unrest is not done, and it is possible that a major eruption could occur in the long-term,” Quintia said.

Volcanic earthquake swarms, abrupt increase or decrease in sulfur dioxide emissions and ground deformation are the primary basis as precursors to eruption.

Last January 14, swarms of volcanic earthquakes from Kanlaon Volcano were recorded.

Quintia said superheated plume or gas emissions could also occur during daytime. However, these cannot be captured by the cameras.

She further adds emissions like these cannot be seen by the naked eye.

Quintia emphasized the need to maintain the four-kilometer permanent danger zone to ensure safety.

Kanlaon remains at Alert Level 2 or state of unrest. (ABS-CBN News)