Philippine Officials Order Mandatory Evacuation Amid Kanlaon Volcano Eruption

Kanlaon Volcano's phreatic eruption on June 3, 2024, has led to a mandatory evacuation of residents near rivers in Canlaon City, Negros Oriental. The eruption, which lasted six minutes, sent a 5,000-meter-high plume of ash into the sky, prompting concerns about flash floods and mudflows.

Canlaon City Mayor Jose Chubasco Cardenas has ordered the evacuation of residents from barangays Masulog, Pula, Lumapao, and Malaiba. As of June 4, 81 individuals have already been evacuated. Mayor Cardenas emphasized the importance of vigilance and readiness, urging residents to prepare vital items such as water and food.

Why this matters: The eruption of Kanlaon Volcano and the subsequent evacuation and closure of tourism sites highlights the importance of disaster preparedness and response in regions prone to natural disasters. The consequences of inadequate preparedness can be devastating, resulting in loss of life, property damage, and long-term economic and environmental impacts.

In response to the eruption, Mayor Cardenas has issued executive orders to close all non-vital business establishments within a four-kilometer radius of Kanlaon Volcano. Additionally, tourism sites within a two- to six-kilometer radius have been closed, and access roads to these sites are strictly prohibited until further notice.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) has raised the alert level for Kanlaon Volcano to Level 2, indicating increased unrest. PHIVOLCS reported 43 volcanic earthquakes since midnight on June 3, and has warned of potential further eruptions and hazardous ash fall. Residents are advised to wear face masks to protect themselves from volcanic ash.

The eruption has also led to the suspension of work in government and private offices in Canlaon City on June 4. Vital services such as hospitals, pharmacies, and emergency response agencies will continue operations with appropriate safety measures in place. Mayor Cardenas has directed all Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council members, city and barangay officials, and government employees to observe all disaster response protocols.

In nearby Negros Occidental province, over 700 people have taken shelter in evacuation centers. Governor Eugenio Jose 'Bong' Villarreal Lacson has advised residents to stay in evacuation centers and for those not yet evacuated to reconsider. Flights have also been affected, with three airlines canceling 32 flights on June 4 following the eruption.

Kanlaon Volcano, one of the Philippines' two dozen active volcanoes, last erupted in December 2017. The country is located in the Pacific 'Ring of Fire', where volcanic activity and earthquakes are common. The recent eruption has heightened awareness of the potential hazards posed by volcanic activity, including ashfall, pyroclastic flows, and lahars.

The city government of Canlaon is taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents and visitors. Mayor Cardenas has urged everyone to follow evacuation orders and stay informed through official channels. 'It is imperative to take proactive measures to safeguard the well-being of residents and mitigate the impact of volcanic activity,' he said.

The situation remains dynamic, and authorities continue to monitor the volcano closely. Residents are advised to stay vigilant and adhere to safety protocols to minimize the risks associated with the ongoing volcanic activity.

Key Takeaways

• Kanlaon Volcano erupts on June 3, 2024, with a 5,000-meter ash plume.
• Mandatory evacuation ordered for residents near rivers in Canlaon City.
• 81 individuals evacuated, with 700 more in shelters in nearby Negros Occidental.
• Alert level raised to Level 2, with 43 volcanic earthquakes reported.
• Authorities urge vigilance, preparedness, and adherence to safety protocols.

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