The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) on Sunday afternoon, June 4, said they have observed an increased degassing activity from Taal Volcano.
Taal Volcano (Manila Bulletin File Photo)
Phivolcs on Sunday said a total of 5,831 tonnes of sulfur dioxide was recorded from Taal’s main crater on June 1 — a figure higher than last month’s average of 3,553 per day. Apart from producing steam-rich plumes reaching 3,000 meters above Taal Volcano, this increased degassing from Taal also produced volcanic smog or “vog” over Taal Caldera. “Vog consists of fine droplets containing volcanic gas which is acidic and can cause irritation of the eyes, throat and respiratory tract with severities depending on the gas concentrations and durations of exposure,” said Phivolcs in an advisory issued Sunday. To prevent the dangers and health risks that this may bring, Filipinos living near the volcano were specifically told to limit their exposure to vog and take extra precautions to protect themselves. “Avoid outdoor activities, stay indoors, and shut doors and windows to block out vog. Cover your nose, drink plenty of water to reduce throat irritation. Watch over yourself and seek help from a doctor, especially if serious effects are experienced,” it furthered. State seismologists also warned of acid rain that may be generated during periods of rainfall and volcanic gas emission over areas where the plume disperses. Alert Level 1 is maintained over Taal but if changes in observed parameters are observed, this may be raised to Alert Level 2.