IN PHOTOS: Ashfall hits parts of Negros Occidental following Kanlaon eruption
Several areas in Negros Occidental were affected by ashfall after the eruption of Kanlaon Volcano on Monday, Dec. 9.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) raised Alert Level 3 (magmatic unrest) over Mt. Kanlaon in Negros Island folllowing its explosive eruption at its summit vent at 3:03 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 9. It lasted for seven minutes.
As stated in Phivolcs' bulletin, the eruption—the volcano's second this year—produced a voluminous plume that sprang up 3,000 meters above the vent and moved west-southwest. It left several parts of Negros Island blanketed by thick ashfall.
Social media user Alvin Amparado shared photos of thick volcanic ash in his residence in Sitio Pacita, Barangay Sag-Ang, La Castellana, Negros Occidental.
In another photo, students in their school uniforms are seen wearing face masks and face shields on an ash-covered road.
Courtesy of Alvin Amparado
Different areas of Guintubdan Spring, a popular vacation spot in La Carlota City, has also been covered with thick ashfall. The local water district said that they have collected water samples from spring sources in Masulog and Guintubdan, which will be submitted to a clinical laboratory for Physico-Chemical and Bacteriological testing to ensure its water potability.
Virlanie FAITH Inc., a nongovernment organization in Brgy. Ma-ao, Bago City, shared photos of their farm following the eruption of Mt. Kanlaon. Fortunately, they were able to harvest crops a day prior.
The NGO also assisted with the evacuation of affected residents to their facility in Bacolod City.
“Currently, all residents are safe and under close monitoring by the staff. While a few experienced elevated blood pressure due to stress, they are gradually feeling calmer in their temporary shelter,” they wrote in the caption.
Several other places, including the Abuanan and Ma-ao Road in Bago City, Negros Occidental, were also covered in ash.
62IB, Philippine Army via Philippine News Agency / Facebook
The ashfall likewise reached nearby provinces, including the first district of Iloilo and some places in Guimaras.
The Department of Health advised residents to wear N95 masks and safety goggles as well as long sleeves to protect their skin following the eruption. The agency also suggested preparing a Go Bag for evacuation.
If they have no N95 masks, the agency advised using clean, damp cloth, keeping windows and doors closed, sealing food containers, and staying indoors.