A destructive eruption of Kanlaon Volcano in Negros Island is feared to occur in the coming weeks, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).
According to DOST-PHIVOLCS Director Teresito Bacolcol, the volcano was placed under Alert Level 3, indicating a possible hazardous eruption in the near future.
The official further explained that magmatic unrest beneath the volcano caused yesterday's explosive eruption.
Furthermore, PHIVOLCS' bulletin revealed that the Kanlaon's eruption yesterday lasted for almost four minutes.
Kanlaon was observed to emit pyroclastic density currents (PDCs), considered highly dangerous and capable of devastating areas they pass through, along with other volcanic debris.
In light of the current situation, officials have issued a strict warning prohibiting entry into the 6-kilometer danger zone.
Approximately 87,000 residents within the danger zone have been forcibly evacuated by the government.
Moreover, military forces are on standby to provide additional emergency and humanitarian response.
