The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) on Thursday, July 11 warned anew of escalating sulfur dioxide emissions from Taal Volcano and raised concerns over "vog," or volcanic smog, and the health of nearby communities.

In the Phivolcs advisory issued at 6 p.m., measurements from the Taal Main Crater showed a significant increase in sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions reaching 11,745 tons.

Based on visual observation, Taal Volcano's degassing has resulted in plumes rising as high as 2,400 meters above the crater before they drifted westward.

Phivolcs said Taal has maintained an average daily emission of 7,777 tons of SO2 throughout the year, but there have been persistent high SO2 concentrations since 2021.

As forecasts suggest a potential decrease in wind strength in the coming days, Phivolcs expressed concern over the heightening risk of SO2 accumulation and vog formation in the Taal Volcano's nearby communities.

It explained that exposure to volcanic SO2 can irritate the eyes, throat, and respiratory tract, particularly impacting vulnerable populations such as those with asthma, lung disease, heart disease, the elderly, pregnant women, and children.

Phivolcs urged residents to take precautionary measures, including staying indoors and using masks to minimize exposure.

Despite Taal Volcano being under Alert Level 1, indicating low-level unrest, Phivolcs alerted the public against the threat of steam-driven or phreatic explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and the release of lethal volcanic gas persists, especially within the permanent danger zone near the Main Crater and Daang Kastila fissure.

Local governments are advised to continuously monitor and assess volcanic SO2 exposure in their communities, and implement necessary responses to mitigate health risks and prepare for potential volcanic hazards.