Kanlaon ashfall in Cebu: What residents should do to stay safe

CEBU CITY, Philippines — Following the latest eruption of the Kanlaon Volcano on Thursday, July 9, the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CCDRRMO) is urging residents to take precautions against volcanic ashfall.

Ashfall has since been reported in several parts of Cebu, including Toledo City, Pinamungajan, Balamban, Minglanilla, and Cebu City.

The eruption also prompted class suspensions in Cebu City, Talisay City, and Toledo City, while work in Toledo City government offices was likewise suspended.

READ: LIST: Cebu LGUs where classes, work are suspended due to Bulkang Kanlaon ashfall

What to do during ashfall

Volcanic ash contains fine particles that can irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. To reduce health risks, residents are advised to observe the following precautions:

Wear protective gear: If going outdoors is necessary, wear an N95 face mask or cover your nose and mouth with a damp cloth to help reduce exposure to fine volcanic ash particles. Wearing eyeglasses instead of contact lenses is also recommended to help protect the eyes from irritation.

READ: Kanlaon ashfall reaches parts of Cebu

Stay indoors: Limit outdoor activities as much as possible, especially for children, senior citizens, pregnant women, and individuals with respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Staying indoors can help reduce exposure to airborne ash.

Seal your home: Keep doors and windows closed to prevent volcanic ash from entering your home. This can help minimize the accumulation of fine ash indoors and reduce exposure to airborne particles.

READ: Kanlaon eruption sparks fires; ashfall hits Negros villages

Protect food and water: Keep drinking water containers and food supplies tightly covered to prevent contamination. Fruits and vegetables should also be washed thoroughly before consumption.

Shelter pets: Pet owners are advised to bring their animals indoors and ensure their food and water are protected from ash contamination.

Drive safely: Motorists should also exercise extra caution while driving, as volcanic ash can reduce visibility and make roads slippery. Drivers are advised to slow down and keep their headlights on while traveling.

READ: Kanlaon communities warned of lahar flows amid rains from Inday

Kanlaon eruption, ashfall

The CCDRRMO issued the advisory after the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported a moderately explosive eruption at Kanlaon’s summit crater at 7:33 a.m. on July 9.

The eruption lasted for about three minutes. Phivolcs has maintained Alert Level 2 over Kanlaon Volcano, indicating that the volcano remains in a state of increased unrest.

Monitor official advisories

The CCDRRMO urged the public to continue monitoring updates from Phivolcs and the disaster management office for the latest information on Kanlaon Volcano and ashfall affecting Cebu.

Authorities also reminded residents to rely only on verified information and avoid sharing unconfirmed reports that may cause unnecessary alarm.

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