Approximately 87,000 residents are being evacuated in the central Philippines following Mount Kanlaon's eruption on Negros island. The volcano released a massive ash plume and deadly gas streams, raising its alert level to indicate a risk of more severe eruptions. Although no immediate casualties occurred, ashfall covered many areas, including Antique province, affecting visibility and public health. The authorities swiftly enforced evacuations in towns on the volcano's western and southern flanks, notably La Castellana, where nearly 47,000 people are relocating from the designated danger zone.
The eruption disrupted air travel, prompting the cancellation of several domestic and international flights. Schools were closed, and a curfew was set in the most at-risk localities. Disaster response teams are prioritizing the provision of essentials like face masks and food, coinciding with the Christmas travel surge in the predominantly Roman Catholic nation. The eruption resulted in a four-minute pyroclastic density current—a lethal mix of gas, ash, and rocks. Teresito Bacolcol, the chief volcanologist, described it as a "one-time but major eruption." Kanlaon's alert on Monday stood at the third highest on the five-step danger scale, suggesting the onset of a magmatic eruption with potential for further explosive activity.
Kanlaon is among the Philippines' 24 most active volcanoes and erupted last in June, prompting temporary evacuations. In 1996, the volcano unexpectedly erupted, killing three hikers. This incident underscores the location's inclusion in the Pacific "Ring of Fire," making it vulnerable to both volcanic and seismic activity, as well as frequent typhoons. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)
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