Vog observed in Taal Volcano, Alert Level 1 remains —PHIVOLCS

Taal Volcano in Batangas continued to show low-level unrest in the past 24 hours, and vog was also observed, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) said on Saturday.

Volcanic smog or vog was produced due to the upwelling of hot volcanic fluids in the main crater lake.

PHIVOLCS earlier advised nearby residents to take precautions against vog

"It consists of fine droplets containing volcanic gas such as SO2 which is acidic and can cause irritation of the eyes, throat and respiratory tract in severities depending on the gas concentrations and durations of exposure," it said.

Those sensitive to such ill effects of vog are those with asthma, lung disease and heart disease, as well as the elderly, pregnant women and children, PHIVOLCS said.

Residents nearby were advised to limit their exposure to vog by avoiding outdoor activities, staying indoors, and shutting doors and windows.

Last August 24, an average of 1,141 tonnes of sulfur dioxide was emitted by Taal Volcano.

Meanwhile, eight volcanic earthquakes including two volcanic tremors lasting two to three minutes were observed in the past 24 hours, PHIVOLCS said in its Saturday bulletin. 

Voluminous plumes rising from the Taal Volcano's crater up to 2,000 meters tall were also seen. These drifted east and east-northeast.

PHIVOLCS said Alert Level 1 remains in effect over Taal Volcano.

It reiterated that entry into Taal Volcano Island — the Permanent Danger Zone or PDZ — especially the Main Crater and Daang Kastila fissures is prohibited.

Likewise, occupancy and boating on Taal Lake is not allowed.

PHIVOLCS also said flying aircraft close to the volcano is hazardous.

The volcano poses possible hazards such as steam-driven or phreatic or gas-driven explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas. —KG, GMA Integrated News