Taal update: 7 quakes, weak steaming monitored; volcano still on alert level 1

(Eagle News)–Seven earthquakes and weak steaming were recorded at Taal in 24 hours, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said on Wednesday, June 17.

PHIVOLCS said the quakes at the volcano, which remains on alert level 1, were “associated mainly with rock-fracturing processes beneath and around the edifice.”

The weak steaming, PHIVOLCS said, was  observed from vents in the main crater and fissure vents along the Daang Kastila trail.

PHIVOLCS reminded the public that “sudden steam-driven or phreatic explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas can occur and threaten areas within the Taal Volcano Island (TVI).”

Entry into TVI, Taal’s Permanent Danger Zone or PDZ, especially the vicinities of the main crater and the Daang Kastila fissure, shouls remain strictly prohibited, PHIVOLCS said.

Local government units were advised to continuously assess previously evacuated barangays around Taal Lake for “damages and road accessibilities and to strengthen preparedness, contingency, and communication measures in case of renewed unrest.”

According to PHIVOLCS, people should observe precautions due to “ground displacement across fissures, possible ashfall, and minor earthquakes.”

PHIVOLCS said it was “closely monitoring Taal Volcano’s activity and any new significant development will be immediately communicated to all stakeholders.”