Taal Volcano remains under alert level 1
By: Angeline Marcelino – @inquirerdotnet
MANILA, Philippines — Despite volcanic smog (vog) emissions observed, the Taal Volcano in Batangas remains under alert level 1, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said on Saturday.
Under this alert level, Phivolcs explained that there is an increase in volcanic earthquakes and steam activity in a volcano. There are also sporadic explosions, a notable increase in the temperature of hot springs, and slight inflammation or swelling in its structure.
In the agency’s ‘Summary of 24-hr Observation’, Taal Volcano reportedly released 2,730 tonnes of sulfur dioxide flux — less compared to the 4,569 tonnes it released on Thursday.
Because of this emission, vog is being observed in Taal.
Phivolcs indicated that the fumes of the volcano were seen at 1,800 meters tall, with its direction going northeast.
No volcanic earthquake was recorded.
Entry into the Taal Volcano Island, especially its main crater and the Daang Kastila fissures is prohibited. Boating on the Taal Lake and flying any aircraft near the volcano are also not allowed, according to Phivolcs.
The agency noted that with the current alert level of Taal Volcano, steam-driven or phreatic or gas-driven explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas may occur on it.
Meanwhile on Friday, Phivolcs assured that the volcano has a low chance of major eruption.
