Two minor steam-driven events occurred at the Taal Main Crater on Saturday, April 20, 2024, emitting white steam-laden plumes reaching 350 meters high, the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS) said.

According to the Taal Volcano Network (TVN), the events took place between 8:50 a.m. to 8:52 a.m. and 9:09 a.m. to 9:12 a.m. 

"The phreatic events were likely driven by the continued emission of hot volcanic gases at the Taal Main Crater and could be succeeded by similar phreatic activity," DOST-PHIVOLCS said in an advisory.

Despite a decrease in sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions last week, SO2 emission levels remain high since January 2024. 

DOST-PHIVOLCS warns the public that Taal Volcano is still under Alert Level 1, indicating abnormal conditions and potential eruptive threats. 

Entry into the Taal Volcano Island (TVI), Taal’s Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ), and specific restricted areas such as the Main Crater and Daang Kastila fissure remain strictly prohibited. 

DOST-PHIVOLCS advised the communities near Taal to stay vigilant and prepared for potential hazards. 

Civil aviation authorities were urged to caution pilots against flying close to the volcano due to possible airborne ash and fragments. 

DOST-PHIVOLCS continues to, as of this writing, monitor Taal's activity and will update the public promptly of any significant developments.