Phivolcs records 3 volcanic earthquakes at Taal Volcano
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) on Saturday, Aug. 3, reported that three earthquakes were recorded at Taal Volcano in Batangas.
In its 24-hour monitoring, Phivolcs noted increased activity at Taal Volcano following weak steam-driven eruptions on Aug. 2.
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On Aug. 3, Phivolcs monitored three new phreatic events, each lasting one minute, at Taal.
Phivolcs records showed that the phreatic events occurred at 7:15 p.m., 7:19 p.m., and 7:23 p.m.
Meanwhile, Phivolcs noted that Taal emitted 3,309 tons of sulfur dioxide (SO2). This SO2 emission resulted in volcanic smog or “vog.”
Phivolcs also noted that the plume rose 2,100 meters and drifted toward the southeast.
Moreover, Phivolcs monitored a long-term deflation of the Taal caldera as well as the short-term inflation of the general northern and southeastern flanks of Taal Volcano Island.
Despite these activities, Phivolcs noted that Taal’s status remained at low-level unrest or Alert Level 1.
Phivolcs reminded the public that possible hazards under Alert Level 1 include steam-driven or phreatic explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas.
Given this, Phivolcs reminded entry into Taal Volcano Island, particularly in the main crater and Daang Kastila fissures, is still prohibited.
Identified as a permanent danger zone (PDZ), Phivolcs said occupancy at Taal Lake is also not allowed.
Moreover, Phivolcs reiterated that flying any aircraft close to the volcano is prohibited.