THE Environmental Management Bureau-Central Visayas issues an advisory urging the public to take precautionary measures amid the poor air quality in Metro Cebu. (EMB-7)
CEBU CITY – The Cebu provincial government recorded two cases of ashfall-related hospital admissions amid the persisting poor air quality caused by the Kanlaon Volcano eruption.
According to the Capitol, the hospital admissions were recorded in Barili and Pinamungajan, two western towns in Cebu facing Negros Island where Kanlaon is located.
The poor quality in Metro Cebu was observed last Thursday following a moderate explosive eruption by Kanlaon.
In its 3 p.m. advisory on Friday, July 10, the Environmental Management Bureau-Central Visayas (EMB-7) reported that air quality in Metro Cebu improved to “good” and remains within the thresholds.
“While the particulate matter (AQI) is currently in the ‘Good’ range, the South-Southwest winds continue to carry invisible volcanic gases – particularly Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) – across the region,” EMB-7 said.
Amid the poor air quality, the agency advised the public to stay indoors especially when it rains.
Metro Cebu experienced rainy weather on Friday.
“With the ongoing rainy weather, these gases can mix with atmospheric moisture to create acid rain,” EMB-7 said.
The agency explained that acid rain can cause mild skin irritation, harm backyard crops, and corrode exposed metal surfaces like roofs and vehicles.
“Stay indoors during rainfall. Avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure when it is raining. If you get caught in the rain, bathe and rinse your skin and hair thoroughly with clean water as soon as possible,” EMB-7 advised.
If cannot be avoided going outside, wearing of N95 or KN95 mask and protective eyewear are advised, the EMB-7 added.