On February 6, 2025, Kanlaon volcano erupted, causing lahars and necessitating evacuations within 6 km of the site due to associated risks. Heavy rainfall contributed to volcanic activity, prompting authorities to raise the alert level. The volcano has shown signs of ongoing magma intrusion and increased sulfur dioxide emissions, indicating potential for a more significant eruption. Evacuation efforts are currently focused on ensuring community safety amidst these environmental challenges.
On February 6, 2025, Kanlaon volcano experienced a minor explosive eruption, leading to lahars triggered by heavy rainfall across Negros Occidental. This prompted authorities to enforce evacuations within a 6 km radius of the volcano due to threats of lava flows, pyroclastic density currents, and lahars, particularly affecting communities near the Buhangin and Binalbagan rivers. The eruption generated an ash plume and sulfurous fumes, necessitating increased vigilance as the volcano remains at Alert Level 3 (magmatic unrest).
An explosively violent event lasted approximately two minutes, producing a 600-meter ash plume that drifted southwest. The eruption was accompanied by 23 volcanic earthquakes and a marked increase in sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) noted ongoing magma intrusion in the volcano, indicating the potential for a more significant eruption. The evacuation efforts utilize local funds amidst the challenges of unlocking additional emergency resources.
Kanlaon, a stratovolcano at 2,422 meters elevation located on Negros Island, has a history of eruptions dating back to 1866, involving both phreatic and magmatic activity. The volcano is part of the Negros-Sulu Volcanic Arc and features a diverse geological structure characterized by pyroclastic cones and craters. The most significant geological event in its history was a large debris avalanche traveling 33 km southwest, the longest recorded in the Philippines. Recent activities include eruptions and gas emissions indicative of its sustained volcanic state since October 2024.
In summary, the Kanlaon eruption has raised public safety concerns as lahars and subsequent geological activity threaten nearby communities. The elevated alert levels and increased monitoring activities reflect ongoing changes in volcanic behaviors. PHIVOLCS continues to emphasize the need for caution and preparedness among local residents and authorities in response to the unfolding situation.
“All parameters… are indicating Kanlaon is preparing for a major eruption,” – Ma. Antonia V. Bornas, PHIVOLCS.
Links:
1. Kanlaon volcano summary – PHIVOLCS – February 8, 2025
2. Kanlaon volcano summary – PHIVOLCS – February 7, 2025
3. Kanlaon – GVP – Accessed on February 8, 2025
4. Kanlaon volcano eruption update – PHIVOLCS – February 6, 2025
5. Phivolcs calls for increased vigilance against potential syn-eruption lahars – DIGICAST NEGROS – February 7, 2025
Kanlaon volcano is an active stratovolcano located on Negros Island in the Philippines, forming part of the Negros-Sulu Volcanic Arc. It stands at an elevation of 2,422 meters and has a long history of both phreatic and magmatic eruptions dating back to 1866. Its geological characteristics include multiple craters, pyroclastic cones, and a caldera, making it susceptible to various volcanic activities such as lahars, lava flows, and ash plumes during eruptions. The socio-economic impact of such eruptions often necessitates urgent evacuations to safeguard community safety.
The February 2025 Kanlaon eruption illustrates the ongoing volcanic threat posed by the stratovolcano, which continues to exhibit signs of possible major eruptive activity. The associated lahars and ash plumes triggered immediate evacuation orders in surrounding communities, while PHIVOLCS maintains vigilant monitoring of the volcano’s activity levels. As local authorities mobilize resources for affected residents, the situation underscores the critical need for preparedness amidst ongoing geological hazards.
Original Source: watchers.news
