ASHFALL was reported in Barangay Mansalanao, La Castellana, Negros Occidental following the eruption of Kanlaon Volcano on Sunday, March 15. (Rhea and Roy FB)
BACOLOD CITY – Fifty-five barangays in 10 local government units (LGUs) in Negros Island were affected by ashfall from the moderately explosive eruption of Kanlaon Volcano on Sunday, March 15.
The Office of Civil Defense-Negros Island Region (OCD-NIR) reported that nine barangays were affected in Binalbagan, six in La Castellana, eight in Moises Padilla, seven in Hinigaran, 11 in Isabela, five in Himamaylan City, two in Kabankalan City, four in Pontevedra, one in Ilog, all in Negros Occidental, and two in Canlaon City, Negros Oriental.
Sulfuric smell was reported in six barangays in Moises Padilla, one each in Bago City and San Carlos City, and three in Don Salvador Benedicto.
The OCD-NIR reported forest fires in Barangays Upper Mananawin and Masulog in Canlaon City, situated within the four-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ), and in Sitio Mananawin, Barangay Masulog, La Castellana which have been declared fire out.
The Negros Occidental Operations Center said that ashfall events and sulfuric smell were observed in certain portions of these barangays. Flushing of roads were conducted.
Canlaon City and Moises Padilla cancelled classes on Monday, March 16. Pandan Elementary School and Camingawan Elementary School in Barangay Antipolo, Pontevedra also suspended their classes, according to OCD-NIR.
Two ash emission episodes were recorded and plume height during both events remained indiscernible due to limited visual observation.