Mount Kanlaon Eruption: Geography, Volcanism, and Key Facts for Competitive Exams
Introduction: Recent geological activity at Mount Kanlaon in the Philippines has made it a significant topic in international news. For aspirants of UPSC, SSC, and State PSCs, understanding the geographical location, the type of volcanism involved, and the "Pacific Ring of Fire" is essential for the Physical Geography and Current Affairs sections.
What is Mount Kanlaon?
Mount Kanlaon (also known as Canlaon) is an active stratovolcano located on Negros Island in the Philippines. It is the highest point on the island and one of the most active volcanoes in the country.
- Type: Stratovolcano (Composite volcano).
- Elevation: Approximately 2,435 meters (7,989 ft) above sea level.
- Location: Border of Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental provinces, Philippines.
- Status: Highly active, characterized by frequent phreatic (steam-driven) eruptions.
Geographical Significance & Volcanism
Mount Kanlaon is a part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, a major area in the basin of the Pacific Ocean where many earthquakes and volcanic eruptions occur.
- Subduction Zone: The volcanism in the Philippines is primarily caused by the subduction of the Philippine Sea Plate and the Eurasian Plate.
- Lahar Risk: Following eruptions, the area is highly susceptible to Lahars (volcanic mudflows), especially during the monsoon season.
- National Park: It is the centerpiece of the Mount Kanlaon Natural Park, a protected area since 1934.
Types of Volcanic Eruptions (Static GK)
Understanding the nature of Kanlaon's activity helps in answering conceptual questions in UPSC Geography:
- Phreatic Eruption: Steam-driven explosions that occur when water beneath the ground or on the surface is heated by magma, lava, hot rocks, or new volcanic deposits. This is common at Kanlaon.
- Magmatic Eruption: Involves the rise of magma to the surface, resulting in lava flows or pyroclastic activity.
- Strombolian/Plinian: Different intensities of eruptions based on gas content and viscosity of magma.
Static GK: Quick Facts for Exams
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | Philippines |
| Island | Negros Island |
| Volcano Type | Stratovolcano |
| Active Monitoring Agency | PHIVOLCS (Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology) |
| Major Tectonic Belt | Pacific Ring of Fire |
Why is it in News? (Context)
In mid-2024 and early 2025, Mount Kanlaon exhibited increased seismic activity and sulfur dioxide emissions, leading to the evacuation of thousands of residents. The Philippine government raised Alert Levels due to the threat of sudden explosions and hazardous ashfall. For India-based exams, this highlights the disaster management aspect of volcanic hazards.
