Taal: 36 volcanic quakes recorded

MANILA, Philippines — Thirty-six volcanic quakes were recorded in Taal Volcano in the past 24 hours.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported yesterday that there was also an upwelling of hot volcanic fluids in the main crater.

Plumes that rose up to 900 meters were observed while sulfur dioxide emissions averaged at 2,451 tons on Friday.

Taal remains under Alert Level 3, which means that magmatic intrusion in the main crater may further drive succeeding eruptions.

Phivolcs reiterated its call for the evacuation of residents on Taal Volcano Island and Barangays Bilibinwang and Banyaga in Agoncillo town and Boso-boso, Gulod and eastern Bugaan East in Laurel, which are considered at high risk.

The agency said pyroclastic density currents and volcanic tsunamis are still possible if stronger eruptions occur.

Ten weaker phreatomagmatic bursts have been recorded since the volcano erupted last weekend.

Phivolcs said activities on Taal Lake are prohibited, but some fishermen have been allowed to tend to their livelihood during window hours.

“Communities around Taal Lake are advised to remain vigilant, take precautionary measures against possible airborne ash and vog and calmly prepare for possible evacuation should unrest intensify,” Phivolcs said.