AFTER a series of tectonic earthquakes, Kanlaon Volcano in Negros province is likely to erupt, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Philvolcs).
“Yes, it is possible to erupt again,” Phivolcs director Teresito Bacolcol said.
In an interview with GMA News, Bacolcol said the tremors indicated that magma has been rising or breaking the volcanic rocks.
“That’s why there have been quakes,” he added.
“Kanlaon (Volcano) is now on Alert Level 2, meaning to say the activity could further escalate,” Bacolcol disclosed.
The official advised concerned residents and local government units to stay vigilant and avoid entry into the four kilometer-radius permanent danger zone.
In an advisory issued on Tuesday, Phivolcs said 288 volcano-tectonic quakes had been monitored since 8:30 p.m. of Sept. 9.
A total of 2,794 tons of sulfur dioxide emission were emitted yesterday by the volcano.
Emission of plumes up to 800 meters high drifted to the northeast direction, Phivolcs said.
“Should we raise the alert level, we will expand the area coverage of the permanent danger zone,” Bacolcol said.
The volcano last erupted on June 3, lasting six minutes and emitting plumes that rose to 5,000 meters.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline “Phivolcs says Kanlaon may erupt due to increased volcanic quakes.”
