2 phreatomagmatic bursts from Taal Volcano main crater recorded —PHIVOLCS

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) reported two phreatomagmatic bursts from the main crater of the Taal Volcano early Wednesday morning.

Based on seismic signals, the first phreatomagmatic burst occurred at 1:46 a.m. and lasted for one minute while the second burst occurred at 2:54 a.m. and lasted for two minutes. Phreatomagmatic involves both magma and water.

Based on thermal camera monitoring, these bursts caused plumes that reached between 400 and 500 meters high.

"There have been three phreatomagmatic bursts since November 15, and are likely driven by fracturing and gas release from resting magma beneath the Taal Volcano Island," PHIVOLCS reported.

The agency also announced that Alert Level 2 or Increased Unrest remains in effect over Taal Volcano.

This means that sudden steam or gas-driven explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and lethal accumulations, or expulsions of volcanic gas can occur and threaten areas within the Taal Volcano Island.

"At Alert Level 2, entry into Taal Volcano Island, Taal's Permanent Danger Zone or PDZ especially the vicinities of the main crater and the Daang Kastila fissure, and extended stay on Taal Lake, must be strictly prohibited," the agency posted.

Local government units in the area are advised to continue to assess and strengthen preparedness of previously evacuated barangays and Taal Lake in case of renewed unrest. 

Pilots should be advised by civil aviation authorities to avoid flying close to the volcano as airborne ash and ballistic fragments from sudden explosion and wind re-mobilized ash may pose as hazard to aircrafts. —BAP/KG, GMA News