A moderately explosive eruption at the summit crater of Kanlaon Volcano occurred at 4:39 p.m. on Thursday, February 19, 2026.

The eruption lasted two (2) minutes based on the seismic record, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).

The event generated a dark gray eruption plume that rose 2,000 meters above the crater before drifting southwest.

Pyroclastic density currents or PDCs descended the southern and southwestern upper slopes within one (1) kilometer of the summit crater as recorded by the IP cameras of the Kanlaon Volcano Network.

Alert Level 2 (intensified unrest) prevails over Kanlaon Volcano and entry into the 4-kilometer-radius Permanent Danger Zone must be strictly prohibited, PHIVOLCS added. 

ASHFALL 

Nearby towns around Mount Kanlaon experienced ashfall following the eruption, based on a GMA News Online report. 

Some parts of Barangay Ma-ao Barrio in Bago, Negros Occidental were affected by the ashfall. In a video, the ground and the plants turned gray after being covered by a layer of volcanic ash. 

In the event of an ashfall, PHIVOLCS advised the public to cover their nose and mouth with a clean damp cloth. 

All entry points, such as doors and windows, must be closed during the event. Use damp cloth to cover any gaps in doors and windows, PHIVOLCS said. 

PHIVOLCS also advised to keep food containers sealed to prevent being contaminated by ash. Also thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables before consumption, state volcanologists added.

Several residents in the surrounding communities took photos and videos of the eruption.