142 volcanic earthquakes recorded in Taal Volcano

One hundred forty-two volcanic earthquakes were recorded in the past 24 hours in Taal Volcano, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) said on Sunday.

This number includes 125 volcanic tremor events lasting from one to 40 minutes, 16 low-frequency volcanic earthquakes, one hybrid event, and low level background tremor that has been detected since July 7.

From the main crater, plumes were emitted in the past 24 hours due to the upwelling of hot volcanic fluids. The plumes reached 2,400 meters tall before drifting west southwest and northwest.

Sulfur dioxide emission was measured at 5,973 tonnes on Saturday.

PHIVOLCS said vog was present over Taal Volcano and its vicinity.

Taal Volcano Island continues to deflate as the Taal region undergoes very slow extension, PHIVOLCS added.

With these, PHIVOLCS said Alert Level 2 is still in effect over Taal Volcano.

The agency warned the public to take the necessary precautions as sudden steam- or gas-driven explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas may occur and threaten areas within or around Taal Volcano Island.

PHIVOLCS reiterated that Taal Volcano Island should be kept off limits as it is a permanent danger zone.

Boating on Taal Lake should likewise be prohibited, it said.

PHIVOLCS also reminded local government units to continuously prepare for any eventuality.

It also said pilots should avoid flying close to Taal Volcano to avoid damage to aircraft. —KG, GMA News