Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology officials reiterated the need to remain vigilant against a major eruption at Kanlaon Volcano, although they cannot predict when it could occur.
PHIVOLCS Director Teresito C. Bacolcol and Ma. Antonia V. Bornas, Volcano Monitoring and Eruption Prediction Division chief, were among the speakers at a Kanlaon Volcano risks and hazards communication seminar at the Social Hall of the Negros Occidental Capitol in Bacolod City on Wednesday, Feb. 19.
“With Kanlaon Volcano being an active threat to the provinces of Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental, it is essential that both the authorities and the public understand the risks involved and the necessary measures to take in the event of an eruption,” Bacolcol said.
Bacolcol said an eruption at Kanlaon could occur if all sides of the volcano are inflated and earthquakes are very closely spaced.
Right now only the eastern side of Kanlaon is inflated, he said.
But he warned that an eruption could occur suddenly with only at least 2 hours’ notice, that is why they are emphasizing the need for the 6-kilometer danger zone to be cleared of residents.
The public should remain vigilant and follow the advice of authorities, Bacolcol said.
Bornas said should an eruption occur communities in the eastern and southern sides of the volcano could be affected.
The highest hazard is in La Castellana town in Negros Occidental, she said.
An eruption would also affect areas in the cities of Bago, La Carlota and San Carlos in Negros Occidental, and Canlaon in Negros Oriental, she said.
They cannot predict when an eruption could occur, it could also be protracted and could take years, she said.*