Kanlaon Volcano has exhibited a calmer exterior in the past 24 hours, with no visible activity observed as of 7:00 PM, June 4. However, scientists at the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) warn for a possible magmatic eruption.

PHIVOLCS attributes this potential scenario to rising magma putting pressure on the volcano’s structure. If such an eruption occurs, it could generate volcanic hazards that endanger areas within designated lava flow and pyroclastic density current hazard zones. In this case, PHIVOLCS would raise the alert level to 3.
The June 3 eruption, which displaced nearly 400 families who sought refuge in safer areas, produced a significant ash plume and sent pyroclastic density currents down the southern slopes. Since then, volcanic gas emissions have reached their highest level this year.
The eruption was preceded by a moderate earthquake and a series of tremors, signs of volcanic unrest, the PHIVOLCS report said.
Kanlaon has been experiencing these tremors since 2020, with several advisories issued in 2023 alone. Additionally, volcanic gas emissions have been steadily increasing since May 2023 and ground deformation has been detected since March 2022.
While no outward activity is currently visible, PHIVOLCS continues to monitor the volcano. As of June 4 noon, weak tremors consistent with low-level degassing were recorded. Volcanic gas emissions remain high, reaching the second-highest level ever measured at Kanlaon, PHIVOLCS said.
As of this writing the volcano remains at Alert Level 2, but a possible escalation to Level 3 is on the table if monitoring data suggests a significant increase in activity.
Authorities and residents near Kanlaon are urged to stay vigilant and follow warnings from PHIVOLCS. Strict adherence to the four-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) restriction is highly recommended. Local communities within the PDZ are listed in the report. Civil aviation is also advised to warn aircraft of the ash and rockfall dangers near the volcano’s summit.
