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If you're living near Kanlaon Volcano, you might want to pay attention to the latest advisory from PHIVOLCS. On September 11, 2024, the sulfur dioxide (SO2) gas emissions from the volcano’s summit reached a record-high of 11,556 tonnes per day — the largest since they started monitoring it. To give you some context, this is way above the average of 1,273 tonnes/day before its June 2024 eruption, and more than triple the rate in recent months.

People in several areas, including Brgy. San Miguel in La Carlota City, Brgy. Masulog and Brgy. Pula in Canlaon City, and a few others, have already reported smelling sulfuric fumes. This could be a problem, especially if you're sensitive to volcanic gas — it can irritate your eyes, throat, and respiratory system. People with asthma, lung or heart issues, as well as kids, the elderly, and pregnant women, are at higher risk.

What can you do to stay safe?

1. Limit your exposure: Try to avoid going outside if you smell sulfur in the air. Keep your doors and windows closed to prevent the gas from entering your home.


2. Protect yourself: If you need to go out, wear an N95 mask to block out the gas. Drink plenty of water to soothe any throat irritation, and monitor your symptoms if you have underlying health conditions.


While Kanlaon remains under Alert Level 2, meaning it’s showing increasing unrest, PHIVOLCS warns that this activity could escalate into more serious volcanic activity. Keep clear of the Permanent Danger Zone, a 4-kilometer radius around the crater. Authorities also advise civil aviation to avoid flying near the summit, as sudden ash eruptions could pose risks to aircraft.

For now, PHIVOLCS is keeping a close eye on Kanlaon, and they’ll send out updates if anything changes. So, stay tuned