Taal Volcano logs phreatic event anew

MANILA, Philippines — Another phreatic event lasting two minutes was detected on Taal Volcano yesterday, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology.

Phivolcs said that aside from phreatic eruption, five volcanic earthquakes including two tremors, and 3,383 tons of sulfur dioxide emission were recorded in Taal.

State seismologists said an upwelling of hot volcanic fluids was observed in the lake along with a 600-meter-high plume emission that drifted north-northwest.

The public has been reminded that Taal remains under Alert Level 1, which means the volcano is still under abnormal condition.

“Under Alert Level 1, sudden steam-driven or phreatic explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas may occur any time,” Phivolcs said.

Entry into Taal’s permanent danger zone, especially near the main crater and Daang Kastila fissure is strictly prohibited.

Local government units were advised to continuously monitor and assess preparedness of their communities.

“Local officials should undertake appropriate response measures to mitigate hazards posed by the volcano’s continuous degassing and phreatic activities,” Phivolcs said.