Kanlaon Volcano's seismic monitoring network recorded two (2) volcanic earthquakes during the past 24 hours. Moderate emission of white steam-laden plumes that rose 300 meters from the summit before drifting southwest and northwest was observed. Ground deformation data from continuous GPS measurements indicate a more pronounced inflation of the edifice since December 2015, signifying pressurization deep beneath the edifice. Sulfur dioxide (SO2) emission was measured at an average of 798 tonnes/day on 20 April 2018.
Alert Level 2 status prevails over Kanlaon Volcano, which means that the volcano is undergoing a moderate level of unrest due to probable intrusion of magma at depth that may or may not lead to a magmatic eruption. The local government units and the public are strictly reminded that entry into the 4-kilometer radius Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) is strictly prohibited due to the further possibilities of sudden and hazardous steam-driven or phreatic eruptions. Civil aviation authorities must also advise pilots to avoid flying close to the volcano’s summit as ejecta from any sudden phreatic eruption can be hazardous to aircraft. DOST-PHIVOLCS is closely monitoring Kanlaon Volcano’s activity and any new development will be relayed to all concerned.