Mount Kanlaon erupts, forces school closures across Negros

Mount Kanlaon in the Philippines erupted early Tuesday, April 8, releasing a plume of ash reaching 4 kilometers into the sky and prompting the suspension of classes in multiple barangays across Negros Occidental. The eruption, lasting over an hour, affected at least 15 barangays, with local governments advising residents to wear masks and stay indoors due to health concerns. Although there were no reports of injuries or significant property damage, thousands of residents from previous evacuations remain in temporary shelters as alerts for volcanic unrest continue. Authorities have maintained Alert Level 3, indicating a high level of unrest, while warning of the potential for a larger eruption. Emergency responses are underway, including the provision of drinking water and necessary supplies to affected areas. Local officials have emphasized the importance of avoiding the six-kilometer danger zone surrounding the volcano.