Kanlaon Volcano eruption triggers toxic gas spread and ash warnings

Following a moderately explosive eruption on October 10, 2026, Kanlaon Volcano remains under Alert Level 2 due to increased volcanic unrest. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) has advised residents near the volcano on Negros Island to stay indoors, close windows and doors, and wear N95 masks or eye protection to mitigate risks from ash fall, volcanic dust, and ballistic projectiles.

Satellite data from the Philippine Space Agency, utilizing the Sentinel-5P satellite, indicates that a toxic sulfur dioxide gas cloud is spreading northwesterly. The plume, which reached heights of up to 15 kilometers, is expected to impact air quality in the Western Visayas provinces of Guimaras, Iloilo, Capiz, and Aklan.

Authorities have maintained a four-kilometer permanent danger zone for evacuation, while urging communities within six kilometers to remain vigilant in the event the alert level is raised to Level 3.