(Eagle News)–The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology has recommended an evacuation from the Pansipit River Valley where fissuring has been observed, signs it says of a Taal imminent eruption.
PHIVOLCS made the recommendation in its 8 a.m. advisory as it noted new fissures and cracks in Sinisian, Mahabang, Dahilig, Dayapan, Palanas, Sangalang, Poblacion, Mataas na Bayan, Lemery; Pansipit, Bilibinwang, Agoncillo; Poblacion 1, Poblacion 2, Poblacion 3, Poblacion 5, Talisay and Poblacion, San Nicolas; and one that transected the road connecting Agoncillo to Laurel, Batangas.
PHIVOLCS reiterated its recommendation for a total evacuation from volcano island and areas within the 14-kilometer radius of the volcano.
According to PHIVOLCS, the Philippine Seismic Network recorded 466 volcanic earthquakes since Jan. 12, 1 p.m.
Over 100, or 156 of these were felt with intensities ranging from Intensity I to V.
Since 5 a.m. of Jan. 14 until 5 a.m. today, PHIVOLCS recorded 159 volcanic earthquakes, 28 of which were felt in intensities ranging from I to III.
“Such intense seismic activity probably signifies continuous magmatic intrusion beneath the Taal edifice which may lead to further eruptive activity,” PHIVOLCS said.
PHIVOLCS said sulfur dioxide emissions were measured at 1686 tons per day on Jan. 14.
With the alert level 4 hoisted over Taal, PHIVOLCS said hazardous explosive eruption is possible within hours or days.
Residents around Taal volcano are advised to guard against the effects of heavy and prolonged fall.
Civil aviation authorities are also advised to inform pilots to avoid the airspace around Taal.
