PHIVOLCS records 302 quakes in Taal Volcano; Alert Level 2 stays amid ‘elevated unrest’

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) on Saturday said it has recorded 302 volcanic earthquakes in the past 24 hours in Taal Volcano and maintained Alert Level 2 amid the crater’s increased unrest.

In its March 27 update, PHIVOLCS reported that the 302 volcanic earthquakes included 184 volcanic tremors that lasted for one to 12 minutes and 188 low-frequency volcanic earthquakes.

It reported weak emission of steam-laden plumes from fumarolic vents that rose as high as 30 meters at the main crater of Taal.

PHIVOLCS measured an average 925 tonnes/day sulfur dioxide emission on Friday.

The latest data of Taal Volcano’s temperature was 71.8ºC taken last March 4 while the pH level of 1.59 was recorded last February 12.

Meanwhile, PHIVOLCS maintained Alert Level 2 (Increased Unrest) over Taal Volcano.

It said that the “unrest has been elevating and is under constant evaluation.”

PHIVOLCS explained that Alert Level 2 means sudden steam-driven or phreatic explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas may occur.

With this, it recommended barring of entry in the Taal Volcano Island, Taal’s Permanent Danger Zone especially near the main crater and the Daang Kastila fissure.

PHIVOLCS advised local government units anew to strengthen its preparations, especially the previously-evacuated barangays in case of “renewed unrest.”

It also advised pilots to avoid flying near the volcano as airborne ash and ballistic fragments can be hazardous to aircraft. —Hana Bordey/KG, GMA News