A minor phreatic or steam-driven eruption occurred at the main crater of the Taal Volcano Island (TVI) from 1:37 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 20, said the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).
Locally known as “pusngat,” Phivolcs said the volcanic event generated a plume reaching 2,000 meters that drifted southwest.
Phivolcs said Alert Level 1 remains in effect over Taal Volcano, a status that has been in place since July 11, 2022.
Under Alert Level 1, sudden steam-driven explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and hazardous gas emissions may threaten areas within the Taal Volcano Island (TVI).
Furthermore, Phivolcs said the ongoing release of high concentrations of volcanic sulfur dioxide poses long-term health risks to nearby communities in the Taal Caldera region that are frequently exposed to volcanic gases.
As a precaution, the public is strongly advised against entering the TVI—Taal’s permanent danger zone—particularly near the Main Crater and the Daang Kastila fissure.
Local government units are encouraged to monitor community preparedness and implement measures to mitigate risks associated with ongoing degassing and phreatic activity.