Alert level 2 raised over Taal —PHIVOLCS

State seismologists on Tuesday raised the alert level in Taal Volcano to Alert Level 2 amid "increasing unrest."

In its latest bulletin, PHIVOLCS said 28 volcanic tremor episodes, four low-frequency volcanic earthquakes, and one hybrid earthquake  at shallow depths of less than 1.5 kilometers beneath Taal Volcano Island were recorded in Taal in the past 24 hours.

Aside from these, volcanic tremors have increased seismic energy compared to previously recorded episodes and ranged between three to 17 minutes.

"The total number of volcanic tremor events has risen to 866 since the onset of increased activity on 13 February. In addition to these, a total of 141 low-frequency volcanic earthquakes (LFVQs) have occurred within one (1) kilometer depths beneath TVI and immediate vicinities," PHIVOLCS said.

"Overall, seismic activity in the past month indicates increased magmatic and hydrothermal activity at shallow depths beneath TVI," it added.

In raising the alert level to 2, PHIVOLCS said there is probable magmatic activity "that may or may not lead to an eruption."

"At Alert Level 2, evacuation is not yet recommended. However, the public is reminded that Taal Volcano Island is a Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) and that entry into TVI, especially the vicinities of the Main Crater and the Daang Kastila fissure, must remain strictly prohibited," it said.

Taal Volcano last erupted in January 2020. —KBK, GMA News