Home Climate Change Mandatory Evacuation Ordered as Mt. Kanlaon Threatens Violent Eruption

Mandatory Evacuation Ordered as Mt. Kanlaon Threatens Violent Eruption

PHIVOLCS reports one explosive eruption in Mt. Kanlaon in 24 hours

MANILA, Philippines – Authorities have issued a mandatory evacuation order for families living within the 6-kilometer permanent danger zone around Mount Kanlaon in Negros Island, as the active volcano shows signs of increased activity that could lead to a violent eruption.

The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) in Western Visayas, which chairs the Task Force Kanlaon, ordered local government units in the affected provinces of Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental to complete the evacuation by Monday, December 16th.

“The urgency of this order cannot be overstated; families are reminded that evacuating now is crucial for their safety,” the OCD said in a statement.

The areas under mandatory evacuation include the cities of La Castellana, La Carlota, Bago, San Carlos, and Canlaon. Officials have stressed that the potential for a catastrophic eruption poses a serious threat to both life and property in these communities.

“Residents who have not yet evacuated are urged to comply with the order to avoid any risks associated with possible re-eruptions or a worst-case scenario of a violent eruption,” the agency warned.

Mount Kanlaon, one of the Philippines’ most active volcanoes, erupted on December 9th, prompting the government to order the evacuation of tens of thousands of people from surrounding villages. The volcano’s alert level has been raised to 3, indicating the likelihood of more explosive eruptions.

To facilitate the evacuation and movement of internally displaced persons (IDPs), new protocols have been established. A designated window for entry and exit of the 6-kilometer permanent danger zone will be allowed from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. only, with local authorities and law enforcement agencies monitoring the border controls and designated pick-up points.

“The task force has emphasized the importance of cooperation among local government officials and community leaders in facilitating this process,” the OCD said. “Director Raul Fernandez, Chairperson of the Task Force Kanlaon, is committed to safeguarding the community and urges all affected families to prioritize their safety during this critical time.”

As Mount Kanlaon continues to show signs of increased volcanic activity, residents in the surrounding areas are urged to heed the mandatory evacuation order and seek shelter in safer locations to avoid the potentially devastating consequences of a violent eruption.