The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) reported that the recent eruption of Kanlaon volcano is classified as "explosive", which is a major eruption.
In an exclusive interview with DZRH's Damdaming Bayan on Wednesday, PHIVOLCS Director Teresito Bacolcol said that the agency is analyzing the ash from the volcano, and if it is found to originate from fresh magma, it will be classified as a magmatic eruption.
"But since October 19, may mga ashing events po tayo. More than 80 na ‘yung steaming na may kasamang abo and when we analyze ‘yung mga ashes ay nanggaling po ito sa mga lumang bato," said Bacolcol.
"Kahapon, mayroon tayong dalawang ashing events. Umabot lamang ito ng 100 meters, di naman gaano ka delikado. But for now, maintain pa rin natin ang alert level 3," he added.
Bacolcol noted that Kanlaon’s historical records show a single magmatic eruption in 1902, characterized by lava flows similar to Mayon’s. Following this event, only steam-driven eruptions, such as phreatic or phreatomagmatic eruptions, have been documented.
He reported that over the past 24 hours, PHIVOLCS recorded 31 volcanic earthquakes, a higher number compared to the previous days. Additionally, sulfur dioxide levels have been increasing.
The agency reportedly anticipated the increase in sulfur dioxide levels, as prior to the eruption on December 9, there was a sudden drop in sulfur dioxide emissions from Kanlaon volcano.
"Ibig sabihin may nakabara and because of this over pressure, sumabog," he added.
Furthermore, the volcano remains at Alert Level 3, indicating the possibility of a hazardous eruption in the coming weeks.
However, PHIVOLCS does not rule out the possibility of raising the alert level further and is currently closely monitoring the situation.
Meanwhile, the agency advised the evacuation of residents residing within the 6-kilometer danger zone.
