• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
While the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) noted a reduction in sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions from Kanlaon volcano over the past several days, thin layers of grey ash, has however been observed in several barangays of La Castellana in Negros Occidental, and Canlaon City in Negros Oriental.
Residents in affected areas have also reported the odor of sulfur.
Mari-Andylene Quintia, PHIVOLCS resident volcanologist at the Mt. Kanlaon Observatory reported on Wednesday that thin layers of ashfall were observed in Sitio Upper Pantaw in Brgys. Pula and Masulog in Canlaon City.
Thin layers of grey ash also affected barangays of Biak Na Bato, Cabacungan, and Cabagnaan in La Castellana, Negros Occidental, according to Local Disaster Risk Reduction Management Officer John de Asis.
PHIVOLCS reported yesterday that the volcano had 10 volcanic earthquakes and emitted 2,066 tons of sulfur dioxide on November 5. While the gas emission was lower compared to previous days, Quintia said it is still high, compared to their baseline data of 300 tons per day.
She warned the public that ashfall and noxious gasses are harmful, as it could trigger lung and heart diseases.
Residents in affected areas have been advised to stay indoors, but maintain adequate ventilation, and avoid going out as sulfur may cause a stinging sensation to the eyes and the blurring of vision could lead to accidents.
Proper use of face masks is encouraged, and covering the nose and mouth with a wet cloth could provide additional protection. Seeking medical consultation is advised for individuals with difficulty breathing, progressing cough, or itchy throat.
The Department of Health also advised persons with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease to ensure adequate supplies of medicine and use them as directed by the doctor.
For eye protection, safety goggles may be worn to keep ashes and dust away from the eyes. As wearing contact lenses is not advised, eyeglasses use is encouraged in the meantime. In case of irritation, rinse the eyes with lukewarm water and avoid rubbing.
Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson urged residents living near Kanlaon volcano not to resist calls to evacuate, should the need arise.
Kanlaon Volcano, which remains under Alert Level 2, is under a state of unrest, and has been intermittently spewing gray ash since Saturday.
Those living in the area around Kanlaon tend to become confident things are normal and no eruption will occur, Lacson said.
“But just like an earthquake we can’t tell when that will happen so I am just hoping that when it is time to evacuate, the cooperation will be there,” he added.*
