NEGROS ISLAND, Philippines — The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) confirmed that Kanlaon Volcano experienced a moderately explosive eruption on Thursday afternoon, February 19, 2026. 

The event occurred at 4:38 p.m. and lasted for about two minutes, producing a dark gray eruption plume that rose approximately 2,000 meters above the summit crater before drifting southwest.

PHIVOLCS reported that pyroclastic density currents descended the southern and southwestern upper slopes within one kilometer of the summit crater. The eruption was captured by the Kanlaon Volcano Network’s monitoring cameras and seismic instruments.

 “A moderately explosive eruption at the summit crater of Kanlaon Volcano occurred at 04:38 PM today and lasted two minutes based on the seismic record,” PHIVOLCS said in its advisory.

The Office of Civil Defense has cautioned residents in nearby communities to remain alert for possible ashfall and pyroclastic flows. Authorities advised the public to avoid venturing near the volcano’s danger zone and to follow official safety instructions.

Kanlaon Volcano, located in Negros Island, is one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines. PHIVOLCS continues to monitor the situation closely and has urged local governments to prepare for potential hazards.

This latest eruption underscores the importance of vigilance in communities surrounding active volcanoes, as sudden explosive events can pose risks to lives, agriculture, and infrastructure. Updates from PHIVOLCS and disaster response agencies are expected as monitoring continues.

Image from Philvocs