Alert Level 2 stays in Taal Volcano as PHIVOLCS records 125 quakes in 24 hours

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) on Saturday maintained Alert Level 2 in Taal Volcano as it recorded 125 volcanic earthquakes in the past 24 hours.

In its April 3 bulletin, PHIVOLCS said the Alert Level 2 or “Increased Unrest” over Taal Volcano remained as 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.

It has also tallied 125 volcanic earthquakes, including seven episodes of volcanic tremor that lasted one to one and a half minutes, 114 low-frequency volcanic earthquakes, three hybrid earthquakes, and one volcano-tectonic earthquake.

Weak emission of steam-laden plumes from fumarolic vents that rose as high as 30 meters is still observed at the main crater of Taal.

PHIVOLCS measured an average 1854 tonnes per 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.

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

Local government units were reminded anew to strengthen their 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