• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology raised a possibility of a volcanic event, following the occurrence of 81 volcano-tectonic quakes, which started early Thursday morning, according to PHIVOLCS Volcano Monitoring and Eruption Prediction Division Chief Ma. Antonia Bornas.
Bornas, in a phone interview, disclosed the possibility of another minor explosive eruption or ash emission, as a result of the series of seismic activities.
The volcano-tectonic (VTs) earthquakes were recorded between 12 a.m. and 10 a.m. on October 16, with magnitudes between 0.1 and 2.9.
Aside from VT quakes, several towns and cities in Negros Occidental, also experienced small earthquakes on Thursday, with magnitudes from 1.6 to 2.3, including the cities of La Carlota, Salvador Benedicto, Hinigaran and Murcia. It was reported by PHIVOLCS as either VT or tectonic in origin.
No damage was reported by authorities, who reminded Negrense to stay calm but alert.
Asked if a volcanic event is imminent, Bornas said it remains a prediction, as scientists cannot say when it will happen.
But there is a possibility, and the chances are increasing. It can happen anytime, she added.
According to PHIVOLCS, the tremors are as deep as six kilometers beneath the northwestern flank of the volcano.
“VTs are generated by rock fracturing processes, and the increase in VT activity strongly indicates progressive rock-fracturing beneath the volcano as rising magma or magmatic gas drives a path towards the surface,” the state seismologist explained.
These parameters indicated that the blockade of volcano gas emission may result in pressurization and swelling of the edifice, potentially leading to a moderately explosive eruption, PHIVOLCS said.
Kanlaon emitted 1,879 tons of volcanic sulfur dioxide from the summit on Wednesday.
Bornas said there is no need for an evacuation if there are no people within the 4-kilometer permanent danger zone.*
