Kanlaon volcano lahar threat prompts evacuation of 167 residents

BACOLOD CITY, NEGROS OCCIDENTAL — A total of 167 residents from communities across Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental have evacuated from their homes following the threat of lahar flows from Kanlaon Volcano, according to the Office of Civil Defense on Wednesday.

The precautionary evacuations were triggered after heavy rains on Tuesday produced lahar—a destructive mixture of volcanic material, rocks, and water—flowing down the volcano's slopes. The OCD coordinated with the Negros Occidental provincial government to assist residents in affected areas in leaving their homes ahead of potential danger.

Kanlaon Volcano, located on the border of Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental, remains an active volcano that poses periodic hazards to surrounding communities. Lahar flows represent one of the most significant threats during periods of heavy rainfall, particularly in areas downslope from volcanic peaks.

The evacuations reflect ongoing preparedness measures by disaster management authorities in the region. Provincial and local government units continue to monitor volcanic and weather conditions to ensure resident safety in communities within the volcano's potential impact zone.