383 quakes recorded in Taal Volcano within 24 hours —PHIVOLCS

PHIVOLCS on Wednesday said it has recorded 383 volcanic earthquakes in the past 24 hours in Taal Volcano, maintaining Alert Level 2 meaning "increased unrest."

In its April 14 bulletin, PHIVOLCS said the 383 volcanic earthquakes included 238 volcanic tremors that lasted for one to 12 minutes, 143 low-frequency volcanic earthquakes, and low-level background that started at 9:05 a.m. last April 8.

PHIVOLCS also observed an upwelling of hot volcanic fluids in the main crater lake on Tuesday and generated 300 meter-tall steam laden plumes.

An average of 1,886 tons per day of sulfur dioxide emission was measured on April 12.

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

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

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 “strongly 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 aircrafts. —Hana Bordey/KBK, GMA News