Kanlaon Volcano on Negros Island erupted Thursday evening in what state volcanologists described as a “moderately explosive” event, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).
“A moderately explosive eruption at the summit crater of Kanlaon Volcano occurred at 07:04 PM today (26 February 2026) and lasted two (2 minutes) based on the seismic and infrasound records,” PHIVOLCS said in a social media update.
The eruption produced a plume rising about 2,500 meters above the crater before drifting southwest. Incandescent ballistics were observed around the crater, while pyroclastic density currents (PDCs) descended the eastern and southeastern upper slopes within 2 kilometers of the summit.
Ash emission continued even after PHIVOLCS released its advisory at 8:30 p.m., indicating sustained volcanic activity following the brief but forceful explosion.
The agency said it will evaluate monitoring data over the next 24 hours to determine whether adjustments to the current alert status are necessary.
Kanlaon remains under Alert Level 2, which prohibits entry into the four-kilometer permanent danger zone due to risks of sudden explosions, rockfalls, and other hazards.
This marks the volcano’s second reported eruption this month, following a similar “moderately explosive” event recorded on February 19.