103 volcanic quakes recorded at Taal Volcano; Alert Level 2 remains

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) on Saturday said 103 volcanic earthquakes were recorded at Taal Volcano in Batangas in the past 24 hours.

These quakes included 21 volcanic tremor events lasting one to two minutes long.

Meanwhile, 5,943 tonnes of sulfur dioxide were emitted by the volcano on Friday.

The volcano continues degassing, with plumes reaching up to 1,200 meters tall seen rising from the main crater, before these drifted in a south-southwest direction. There was also upwelling of hot volcanic liquids in the volcano's lake.

Alert Level 2 remains hoisted over the volcano due to its increased unrest, PHIVOLCS said.

PHIVOLCS last measured the acidity of the main crater lake on February 12 this year, and the pH level was at 1.59.

The main crater lake's temperature meanwhile was last taken on March 4, and it was 71.8ºC.

Taal Volcano Island continues to inflate, with the Taal Caldera continuing its slow extension.

PHIVOLCS reiterated its recommendation to keep Taal Volcano Island, especially its main crater and Daang Kastila fissures, to be kept off limits.

Occupancy and boating on Taal Lake should not be allowed, it added.

Meanwhile, pilots were advised not to fly close to Taal Volcano as it may be hazardous to aircraft.

PHIVOLCS also reminded the public that under Alert Level 2, the volcano may have steam-driven or phreatic or gas-driven explosions.

Other activities that may be expected are volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas. —KG, GMA News