PHIVOLCS records 355 quakes in Taal within 24 hours

PHIVOLCS on Wednesday said it has recorded 355 volcanic earthquakes in the past 24 hours in Taal Volcano, maintaining Alert Level 2 amid crater’s elevated unrest.

In its May 12 bulletin, PHIVOLCS reported that the 355 volcanic earthquakes included 201 low-frequency volcanic earthquakes and 154 volcanic tremors with durations of two to 35 minutes, and low-level background tremor which persisted since April 8.

PHIVOLCS also observed an upwelling of hot volcanic fluids in the Main Crater lake, which generated 200 meter-tall but weak plumes that drifted to the southwest.

An average of 3,463 tons per day sulfur dioxide emission was measured on May 11, PHIVOLCS said.

The latest data of Taal Volcano’s temperature was 71.8°C 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.

PHIVOLCS warned 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 said elevated unrest has recurred in the last two days and the volcano conditions remain unstable.

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