Nearly 54,000 people have been affected by the powerful eruption of the Kanlaon volcano in the Philippines’ Negros Islands. The volcano erupted at 3:03 pm on Monday, creating a catastrophic situation when a plume of ash rose up to 3,000 meters and spread in the west and southwest direction. Local scientists have advised people living within six kilometers of the volcano to immediately move to safer places.
Teresito Bacolco, head of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, told the media that the danger is not over yet. He stressed that the volcano’s summit could see another powerful explosion, which could worsen the situation. In addition, he said that if it rains, it could make the ash situation even more difficult. Scientists called the evacuation process of the area extremely important, especially in the areas that are included in Masulog and Pula barangays. Schools are being used to evacuate people to safer places.
The Philippines’ Department of Health has warned that the volcanic ash could cause respiratory problems, especially for asthmatics. The hazard poses a serious health hazard, and is also likely to cause eye damage. On Tuesday morning, 476 members of 146 families were evacuated to improvised evacuation centers, including the one in Canlaon town. Department of National Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. urged residents to immediately evacuate the area to avoid any potential casualties. Overall, the situation remains a matter of grave concern for local residents.