A powerful explosion from Mount Kanlaon in the central Philippines led to over 700 people fleeing to evacuation camps. The eruption triggered sirens in Canlaon, causing hundreds to flee to safety in government trucks. The mayor reported no casualties, with over 150 people in evacuation centers and others seeking refuge with relatives.
Authorities raised the alert level to two, indicating a moderate level of volcanic unrest. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. confirmed the evacuation of 796 people, with government aircraft on standby. The eruption prompted the temporary closure of resorts in the city to prevent injuries in case of another eruption.
The Philippines is no stranger to volcanic activity, with Kanlaon being one of the country’s 24 most active volcanoes. Despite recent eruptions, it is unclear if the volcano’s restiveness will worsen or settle down. The region is part of the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, making the Philippines one of the world’s most disaster-prone nations.
Teresito Bacolcol of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology reported ash scattering as far as 10 kilometers. Authorities have enforced a no-entry regulation in a 4-kilometer permanent danger zone around the volcano. With the unpredictable nature of volcanic activity, residents and tourists are urged to stay alert and follow safety protocols to minimize risk.
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