Kanlaon ashfall affects Balamban; residents urged to wear face masks

Residents of Balamban are being urged to wear face masks and take immediate health precautions amid volcanic ashfall linked to the latest eruption of Kanlaon Volcano on Thursday, July 9, 2026.

The Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) of Balamban advised residents to wear face masks, preferably N95 or KN95 masks, when going outdoors to reduce exposure to fine volcanic ash particles.

The advisory comes as Kanlaon Volcano recorded another moderately explosive eruption Thursday morning.

According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), the eruption began at approximately 7:33 a.m. and lasted for about three minutes, ending at 7:36 a.m.

The eruption generated a thick ash plume that rose an estimated two to three kilometers above the volcano before volcanic ash was carried by prevailing winds.

Following the volcanic activity, the Balamban MDRRMO urged the public to remain indoors whenever possible, particularly children, pregnant women, senior citizens, and individuals with heart or respiratory conditions, who may be more vulnerable to the effects of volcanic ash.

Residents were also advised to keep doors and windows closed to prevent ash particles from entering homes.

When cleaning accumulated volcanic ash, authorities recommend lightly dampening the ash before sweeping to prevent fine particles from becoming airborne and being inhaled.

Volcanic ash may cause irritation to the eyes, nose, throat, and respiratory system. Residents experiencing difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, or irritation of the eyes, nose, or throat are advised to seek immediate medical attention.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation as volcanic ash remains a concern in affected areas.

Balamban residents are urged to stay alert, observe health and safety precautions, and rely on verified advisories from local disaster authorities and PHIVOLCS for further updates.

Article by – Dayman Harold Aloyan, TMC Intern