Philippine volcano eruption forces evacuations as ash blankets homes

A volcano on Negros island in the Philippines erupted on Monday, sending ash and gases up to three kilometers high. Residents were forced to evacuate, and authorities closed schools and imposed a nighttime curfew due to health concerns and reduced visibility. Disaster-response officials raised the danger level around Kanlaon volcano, ordering evacuations within a six-kilometer radius. About 100 people sought shelter, with estimates suggesting over 2,000 may be displaced if eruptions continue. The Philippines’ Institute of Volcanology reported a pyroclastic density current from the eruption. The alert level is now at three on a five-step scale, indicating a significant risk of further explosive activity.