Alert Level 2 stays in Taal Volcano as PHIVOLCS records 168 quakes in 24 hours

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) on Friday maintained Alert Level 2 in Taal Volcano as it recorded 168 volcanic earthquakes in the past 24 hours.

In its April 16 bulletin, PHIVOLCS said the Alert Level 2 or “Increased Unrest” over Taal Volcano is maintained.

This means sudden steam-driven or phreatic explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas may occur.

It has tallied 168 volcanic earthquakes, including 66 episodes of volcanic tremor that lasted one to six minutes, 102 low-frequency volcanic earthquakes, and low-level background tremor that started at 9:05 am on April 8.

Weak emission of steam-laden plumes from fumarolic vents that rose as high as 10 meters was observed at the main crater of Taal.

PHIVOLCS measured an average 1,254 tonnes per day sulfur dioxide emission on Thursday.

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 are reminded 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/RSJ, GMA News