Lahar Threat from Kanlaon Volcano Forces Evacuations

BACOLOD CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL, Philippines — Heavy rains triggered lahar flows along the slopes of Kanlaon Volcano on Tuesday, prompting 167 residents in Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental to preemptively flee their homes, an Office of Civil Defense (OCD) official said Wednesday. The OCD had asked the Negros Occidental provincial government to assist with the evacuations. Kanlaon Volcano has shown signs of increased activity since its alert level was raised in June 2023. This lahar event highlights ongoing concerns for the safety of residents in areas surrounding the volcano. Authorities are monitoring further volcanic activity and changes in weather conditions, and are preparing to implement additional evacuation measures if necessary. Philippines, situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire, is prone to seismic and volcanic activity. Kanlaon Volcano, one of the most active in the central Philippines' Visayas region, has a history of eruptions and lahar flows. To ensure resident safety and minimize damage, the government and local authorities maintain constant monitoring and focus on the operation of early warning systems.