Philippines: Volcanic activity at Kanlaon Volcano on Negros Island as of June 3

The Kanlaon Volcano on Negros Island, approximately 35km (22 miles) southeast of Bacolod City, erupted at 18:51 June 3. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) maintains Volcano Alert Level 2 (the second level on a five-tier scale). Authorities on Negros Island have issued evacuation orders for people residing within the 4 km (2.5 miles) of the Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ). As of the afternoon of June 3, authorities have closed the airspace across the volcano.

The eruption caused a large plume, two volcanic earthquakes, and scattered debris up to 4 km (2.5 miles) from the crater. Lava flows were reported down the southern and southeastern slopes. Increased sulfur emissions have also occurred. Additional eruptions from Kanlaon could cause further low-level seismic activity, ash clouds, and landslides in the surrounding area. People, especially those with underlying pulmonary conditions such as asthma, COPD, or lung cancers, may experience difficulty breathing and suffer lower tolerance to physical exertion than healthier individuals. Such individuals should take additional precautions to avoid excessive ash exposure.

Transport
Transport disruptions are possible in the surrounding area, especially if a significant eruption occurs. Road conditions could quickly deteriorate during periods of substantial ashfall. Authorities advise motorists to drive with extreme caution as ash can result in poor visibility and, when wet, make roads slippery. Officials may close roads near the volcano depending on the presence of hazardous volcanic material. Fine particulate matter ejected from the volcano could pose a hazard to flights in the surrounding airspace. Officials also advise aircraft to avoid flying close to the summit due to potentially hazardous ash.