BACOLOD CITY – The Department of Health (DOH)-Negros Island Region (NIR) has warned the public against health hazards from Kanlaon Volcano lahar.
LAHAR from the Dec. 9 eruption of Kanlaon Volcano is visible on a river in Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental on Sunday, Dec. 15, following to a rainfall. (Photo via Vice Mayor Ian Villaflor Facebook)
In an advisory released on Sunday, Dec. 15, the DOH said that lahar has flowed in some parts of Negros Occidental, particularly in areas where heavy ash was recorded.
Dr. Razel Nikka Hao, DOH-NIR director, said that lahar is a rapidly flowing thick mixture of volcanic materials such as ash and rock fragments from a volcanic eruption mixed with water.
Lahar can move from 75 to 80 kilometers per hour on steep slopes and can be extremely destructive and cause significant damage to property and loss of life, she added.
It may cause irritation in the eyes and airways, cause vomiting, dizziness, headaches, and rapid or difficulty breathing. It can also cause nasal and throat irritation and dry coughing.
Individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma or bronchitis may experience a more severe symptom.
The DOH advised the public to protect themselves and their families by avoiding areas near rivers or any body of water going down stream, remain indoors and close windows and doors, wear protective masks, use goggles, avoid driving in heavy and active ash fall, and wear long sleeves and long pants if outdoors.
The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC)-Emergency Operations Center (EOC) said that they will verify reports regarding lahar.
Lahar flow was reported days after the June 3 eruption of the volcano in some parts of La Castellana in Negros Occidental due to heavy rain.