Kanlaon

When Volcanoes and Monsoons Collide: A Wild Ride for Kanlaon Residents!

Kanlaon Volcano is rumbling, and the floods aren't helping! Check out how residents are getting ready to face Mother Nature's double whammy!

Residents living near the infamous Kanlaon Volcano on Negros Island are facing a challenging few weeks as they deal with both heightened volcanic activity and unexpected floods sharply spawned by the southwest monsoon. These floods, triggered by abundant rainfall, have already displaced many families, causing a ripple effect through local communities. The vibrancy of life in Brgy Masulog, La Castellana, is now overshadowed by concerns of safety, with authorities working diligently to ensure everyone's well-being amidst these unsettling circumstances.

Not only are local evacuations underway, but the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) is sounding the alarm about potential lahar flows that could devastate sugar plantations in the area. Sugar is a vital crop in the Philippines, and the threat posed by the volatile combination of monsoon rains and volcanic activity could lead to both agricultural losses and economic setbacks. The agricultural community is watching the situation closely as SRA monitors the looming threat to the lucrative sugar industry.

In response to this dual threat, the Visayas Command (Viscom) has ramped up its Disaster Response Task Group (DRTG) to ensure timely and effective action is taken to protect residents. Volunteers and rescuers are prepared; it’s truly a community effort as neighbors come together in this difficult time. Evacuation plans are in place, keeping safety as the number one priority, but the daunting reality of natural disasters also serves to unite these brave residents as they face the unknown together.

While the focus remains on the current threats posed by both Kanlaon’s rumblings and booming floods, many locals also express their shared hope for recovery and resilience in the face of adversity. The spirit of the Filipino people is truly something to admire! And speaking of admiration, did you know that Kanlaon is one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines and one of the tallest in the Visayas? It reaches a height of about 2,465 meters (8,745 feet) and is a major draw for adventurous tourists! Additionally, the area surrounding Kanlaon is home to diverse ecosystems, showcasing a rich variety of flora and fauna, making it not just a geological wonder, but also a natural paradise.