Phivolcs says despite vog, Taal Volcano still at alert level 1

By: Angeline Marcelino - @inquirerdotnet - 1 year ago

DANGER IN THE AIR Taal Volcano is swathed in a mist of hazardous sulfur dioxide as seen from Agoncillo town, Batangas province. —RICHARD A. REYES

MANILA, Philippines — Taal Volcano has reportedly released on Friday, September 22, lesser sulfur dioxide flux with only 2,730 tonnes as compared to Thursday, September 21, where 4,569 tonnes were released, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) ‘Summary of 24-hour Observation.’

Phivolcs said that Thursday’s release caused a volcanic smog or vog which could be observed in Taal.

Despite the lesser release of sulfur dioxide, the agency continues to place on Saturday, Taal Volcano in Batangas under alert level 1.

READ: LIVE UPDATES: Taal Volcano

Under this alert level, Phivolcs has explained that there is an increase in volcanic earthquakes and steam activity in a volcano. There are also sporadic explosions, a notable increase in the temperature of hot springs, and slight inflammation or swelling in its structure.

Phivolcs indicated that the fumes of the volcano were seen at 1,800 meters tall, with its direction going northeast.

No volcanic earthquake was recorded.

Entry into the Taal Volcano Island, especially its main crater and the Daang Kastila fissures is prohibited. Boating on the Taal Lake and flying any aircraft near the volcano are also not allowed, according to Phivolcs.

The agency noted that with the current alert level of Taal Volcano, steam-driven or phreatic or gas-driven explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas may occur on it.

Meanwhile on Friday, Phivolcs assured that the volcano has a low chance of major eruption.