Philippines – A moderately explosive eruption shook Kanlaon Volcano’s summit crater at 05:51 AM today, 8 April 2025. The eruption lasted 56 minutes, according to seismic and visual records.

The event produced a gray, voluminous plume that rose 4,000 meters above the vent. It drifted west and southwest, accompanied by rumbling sounds heard in nearby barangays in La Castellana and Canlaon City.

Pyroclastic density currents (PDCs) flowed down the southern slopes within a kilometer of the crater. Large ballistic fragments burned vegetation near the summit, while thin ashfall affected areas like La Carlota City, Bago City, and La Castellana.

Sulfurous fumes were strong in Brgy. Cubay and faintly noticed in Hinigaran. The eruption followed swelling of the volcano’s southeastern side since January and a drop in sulfur dioxide emissions.

No major changes in earthquakes or gas levels have occurred since the eruption. Alert Level 3 remains, signaling possible short-lived eruptions or lava flows in the near future.

Communities within 6 kilometers of the crater are urged to stay evacuated due to risks from PDCs, ashfall, and rockfalls. Local governments must prepare for worse scenarios, including lahars if heavy rain falls.

Civil aviation authorities have warned pilots to avoid the summit area due to ash hazards.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download