A powerful eruption at Mt. Kanlaon in the Philippines has forced thousands of residents to evacuate, as authorities brace for further explosive activity. On December 9, the volcano erupted with a loud shockwave, sending ash and sulphur fumes across surrounding areas, particularly affecting Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) raised the alert level from 2 to 3, signalling that a magmatic eruption has begun and warning that more violent eruptions may follow, as reported by The Inquirer.

The eruption, which occurred at 3:03 PM, lasted only a few minutes but caused significant damage. Ashfall blanketed roads, rooftops, and vegetation, while the strong sulphuric fumes created hazardous conditions. Bago City reported heavy ashfall, with residents experiencing a rain of small stones. The immediate areas within a 6-kilometre radius from the volcano’s summit have been placed under evacuation orders, affecting approximately 87,000 people, with towns such as La Castellana seeing the most severe impacts.

Local officials have been coordinating the evacuation process, urging residents to take shelter in temporary centres. La Castellana Mayor Rhummyla Mangilimutan confirmed the evacuation of residents from three barangays, and similar measures were taken in nearby towns and cities, including Bago, La Carlota, and Canlaon City. Classes and government work have been suspended in the affected areas.

Phivolcs has been closely monitoring the situation and reported that pyroclastic density currents were observed descending the southeastern slopes of the volcano. The eruption also prompted the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) to issue flight restrictions, prohibiting aircraft from flying within a 21,000-foot radius of the volcano.

The eruption of Mt. Kanlaon, which has been dormant for several months, follows a similar incident earlier in 2024. In June, the volcano emitted coarse ash and sulphur fumes, causing significant damage to crops and fisheries. The ongoing activity serves as a reminder of the persistent volcanic threat in the region, particularly for those living near the 24,500-hectare volcanic area.

As the eruption continues to threaten nearby communities, Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson of Negros Occidental urged residents to follow evacuation orders, wear protective gear, and stay indoors to minimise exposure to the ashfall. Authorities are also focusing on ensuring the safety of residents as the situation unfolds, with more explosive eruptions likely in the coming days.