Kanlaon Volcano erupts, stays at alert level 3.

Kanlaon Volcano, located on the island of Negros in the Philippines, erupted explosively on April 8, 2025, spewing ash as high as 4 kilometers into the atmosphere. The eruption has led to the continued enforcement of Alert Level 3, indicating that the volcano remains under heightened watch due to ongoing activity.

The eruption of Kanlaon began in the morning, with ash clouds reaching significant altitudes. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) reported that the volcano exhibited explosive activity, producing volcanic tremors and a distinct ash plume. This eruption follows a series of increased seismic events and ground deformation beneath the surface, indicating that magma continues to rise.

According to PHIVOLCS, the eruption lasted for several hours, with volcanic materials being thrown into the air and settling on nearby areas. Ashfall affected several towns, with residents reporting darkened skies and thick ash covering their homes. The surrounding areas face threats from pyroclastic flows and lahars, which could exacerbate the situation.

Local government units and authorities have issued advisories to evacuate people from the immediate vicinity of the volcano, particularly those living within the 4-kilometer radius. This area remains the danger zone due to the risk of sudden eruptions and the potential for a more significant explosive event. Approximately 20,000 people have been affected by the eruption, and evacuation operations are ongoing.

While the eruption has caused disruption in surrounding communities, no casualties have been reported as of yet. However, PHIVOLCS has stressed the importance of remaining cautious, as the volcano may continue its active behavior in the coming days. The public is urged to avoid traveling near the volcano and to wear protective gear due to the toxic ash.

In addition to PHIVOLCS’s ongoing monitoring efforts, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) is working closely with local officials to ensure that evacuation efforts are efficient and that necessary supplies are distributed to affected residents. Relief teams have been dispatched to assist those in need, and shelters have been set up for evacuees.

Kanlaon is one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines, with a long history of eruptions. While this event is not as large as some previous eruptions, it has raised concerns due to its sudden onset and the potential for more explosive activity in the coming days.

Experts continue to monitor the situation closely, and PHIVOLCS has warned that the public should remain on high alert, especially considering the possibility of further eruptions. The agency has promised to provide updates on the situation as more information becomes available, stressing the importance of staying informed during this period of heightened volcanic activity.

As the situation continues to unfold, authorities remain focused on ensuring the safety of residents and preparing for any further developments.

Sources:

• https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2050842/kanlaon-volcano-erupts-remains-on-alert-level-3 
• https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1247672 
• https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/regions/941988/kanlaon-volcano-has-explosive-eruption-phivolcs/story/ 
• https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/southeast-asia/article/3305588/philippines-kanlaon-volcano-erupts-spewing-ash-4km-high 
• https://www.rappler.com/philippines/visayas/phivolcs-kanlaon-volcano-eruption-update-bulletin-april-8-2025/