Alert Level 4 remains over Taal Volcano as eruption continues in main crater

Alert Level 4 is still raised over Taal Volcano with hazardous eruption possible anytime soon amid its continuous activity, which generated two-kilometer dark gray steam plume, according to PHIVOLCS on Tuesday.

New vents have also opened up on its northern flank and within the main crater which spewed out 500-meter tall lava fountains and steam plumes, respectively. Flashes of volcanic lightning were also observed on Tuesday morning.

Heavy ashfall were experienced in Lemery, Talisay, Taal, and Cuenca, Batangas, according to PHIVOLCS.

Figures as of 2 a.m. on Tuesday showed that 212 volcanic earthquakes were recorded — 81 of which were felt with intensities ranging from Intensity I–V in Tagaytay City, Cavite.

"Such intense seismic activity probably signifies continuous magmatic intrusion beneath the Taal edifice, which may lead to further eruptive activity," PHIVOLCS said.

The amount of sulfur dioxide emitted by the Taal Volcano was measured at an average of 5,299 tonnes/day, as of Monday.

"Ibig sabihin may magma na lumalabas. Kapag ganiyan po ang value, magmatic talaga 'yan," PHIVOLCS Renato Solidum said in a press conference.

PHIVOLCS warned that hazardous explosive eruption is possible within hours to days.

The authorities advised the public within the 14-kilometer radius from the Taal Main Crater to evacuate due to high risk of experiencing pyroclastic density currents and volcanic tsunami. It also reiterated that the Taal Volcano Island must be totally evacuated.

Those in the general north of the Taal Volcano were advised to take precautionary measures against the effects of heavy and prolonged ashfall.

The airspace around the volcano should also be avoided by aircraft due to the possible hazards that may be caused by airborne ash and ballistic fragments from the eruption column. —KBK, GMA News