By Christine Fabro
Kanlaon Volcano emitted 1,099 volcanic sulfur dioxide (SO2) on Sunday, April 30, the highest value recorded this year, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).
“Volcanic sulfur dioxide (SO2) gas emission from the summit crater of Kanlaon based on campaign Flyspec measurements yesterday, 30 April 2023, averaged 1,099 tonnes/day, the highest value recorded this year,” Phivolcs said in advisory on Monday, May 1.
It said this is almost an order of magnitude higher than the average of 124 tonnes per day recorded since March 2023.
Phivolcs noted the detection of volcanic SO2 concentrations began in April 2023.
“The Kanlaon Volcano network recorded one hundred and forty-one (141) volcanic earthquakes between 1 April and 30 April 2023, for an average of five (5) per day,” it said, noting that the earthquakes occurred at shallow depths to depths of 10 kilometers across the northern to western portions of the edifice.
Slow pressurization within the volcano has also been observed since March 30.
“These parameters could indicate increased hydrothermal activity occurring beneath the edifice, possibly driven by degassing of even deeper magma, with increased possibilities of phreatic or steam-driven explosions occurring at the summit crater,” it noted.
To date, Alert Level 1 prevails over Kanlaon.
Phivolcs advised the public and local government units to refrain from entering the four-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone due to increased chances of sudden and hazardous phreatic eruptions occurring without warning. – gb