ILOILO City — Communities around Kanlaon Volcano were urged to brace for possible life-threatening lahars as Tropical Depression “Verbena” is expected to dump heavy to intense rains over Negros Island in the coming days, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).
In an advisory released on November 24, the agency said the combination of Verbena’s rains and the ongoing shear line could trigger powerful volcanic sediment flows and muddy runoffs on waterways draining Kanlaon’s southern, western, and eastern slopes. The volcano remains under Alert Level 2, prompting tighter monitoring of rivers and gullies prone to sudden debris-laden surges.
PHIVOLCS noted that intense rainfall could loosen and sweep away ash and pyroclastic deposits left by the October 24 eruption, as well as more recent ashfall. Slope areas already weakened by landslides or saturated during Super Typhoon “Tino’s” passage earlier this month may also give way, producing non-eruption lahars that can rapidly accelerate downslope.
Several rivers and creeks—including the Ibid, Buhangin–Indurayan, Talaptapan, Marangdang, Camansi, Masulog, Linothangan, and Binalbagan channels—were identified as potential pathways of debris flows. These waterways cut through or lead toward populated areas in Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental such as Bago City, La Carlota City, La Castellana, Moises Padilla, Canlaon City, and San Carlos City.
Authorities warned that lahars can carry massive boulders and thick sediment capable of submerging communities, washing out structures, and causing fatal injuries. Residents living near riverbanks and low-lying zones were advised to prepare for possible evacuations and to avoid crossing swollen streams.
Local governments were likewise urged to remain on heightened alert, monitor rainfall levels continuously, and implement pre-emptive safety measures when needed.
PHIVOLCS reminded the public that with Verbena’s rains approaching, “constant vigilance and readiness are crucial for all communities situated near identified lahar-prone channels.”/PN
