Philippines’ Kanlaon volcano erupts, spewing ash 5km high and sparking evacuation
- The explosive eruption prompted the suspension of work and schools in Canlaon City, while three airlines cancelled 32 flights on Tuesday
- Officials warned of hazardous ash and the risk of flash floods, mudflows and other hazards. Kanlaon last erupted in December 2017
Government officials warned of the possibility of further eruptions of Kanlaon volcano, hazardous ash fall and sulphuric odour. They also warned that rivers downstream from the volcano were at risk of flash floods, mudflows and other hazards.
01:02
Philippines’ Kanlaon volcano erupts, spewing ash 5km high and sparking evacuation
“Go down to your respective evacuation centres, be vigilant, and prepare important things such as water and food,” Jose Chubasco Cardenas, mayor of Canlaon City in Negros Oriental province, said in issuing the evacuation order via Facebook for residents in four communities near the volcano.
In the nearby Negros Occidental province, more than 700 people were taking shelter in evacuation centres, governor Jose Lacson told DWPM radio station.
“We advise them to stay there, and for those not yet in evacuation centres, I hope they can reconsider.”
Government agencies have yet to report missing, injured, or fatalities since the eruption on Monday evening.
