(Eagle News) — An alert level 3 remains hoisted over Taal volcano as it continues to emit steam-laden plumes and its seismic activity.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said activity in the main crater in the past 24 hours has been characterized by “moderate emission” of the white to dirty white plumes rising 200 to 300 meters high.
Weak steaming from fissure vents along the Daang Kastila trail was also observed.
Sulfur dioxide emission was again below instrumental detection due to weak plume activity, PHIVOLCS said.
According to PHIVOLCS, the Taal Volcano Network recorded 118 volcanic earthquakes including five low-frequency events and one harmonic tremor that lasted for less than three minutes.
“These earthquakes signify magmatic activity beneath the Taal edifice that could lead to eruptive activity at the main crater,” PHIVOLCS said.
PHIVOLCS reminded the public that “sudden steam-driven and even weak phreatomagmatic explosions, volcanic earthquakes, ashfall, and lethal volcanic gas expulsions can still occur and threaten areas within Taal Volcano Island and nearby lakeshores.”
PHIVOLCS reiterated its recommendation for entry into the Taal Volcano Island as well as into areas over Taal Lake and communities west of the island within a seven-kilometer radius from the main crater to be strictly prohibited.
Local government units were also advised to assess areas outside the seven-kilometer radius for damages and road accessibilities and to “strengthen preparedness, contingency and communication measures in case of renewed unrest.”
“People are also advised to observe precautions due to ground displacement across fissures, frequent ashfall and minor earthquakes,” PHIVOLCS said.
Civil aviation authorities must also advise pilots to avoid flying close to the volcano, PHIVOLCS said.
