Kanlaon Volcano Erupts, Disrupts Life in Negros

Mount Kanlaon in the Philippines erupted on April 8, sending an ash plume approximately 4,000 meters into the atmosphere and prompting the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) to issue a Level Three Alert. This alert indicates a heightened risk of further explosive eruptions and lava flows, especially within a six-kilometer danger zone, leading to the evacuation of residents and suspension of classes for over 40,000 students. PHIVOLCS Director Teresito Bacolcol warned that additional eruptions are likely, with the potential for hazardous ashfall and pyroclastic flows. The local government has suspended work in all offices except for emergency services, and residents are advised to stay indoors and follow safety guidelines. Despite no immediate new eruptions following the initial event, monitoring continues as the situation remains fluid. Kanlaon is one of the Philippines' 24 active volcanoes and has a history of explosive activity, with the last significant eruption in 1902.