MANILA – The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) issued a warning on Friday, June 7, 2024, about potential vog (volcanic smog) hazards following elevated sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions from Taal Volcano.

On Thursday, Taal Volcano emitted 11,072 tonnes of SO2, exceeding its average annual emission of 8,294 tonnes per day.

Vog, a type of air pollution caused by volcanic gas droplets, can irritate the eyes, throat, and respiratory system. The severity of symptoms depends on the gas concentration and exposure duration.

Phivolcs noted that weather forecasts indicate a potential decrease in wind strength over the coming days, which could lead to SO2 accumulation and vog formation in areas around Taal.

“The advisory focuses on the Taal region, but the actual spread of vog will depend on wind direction,” stated Phivolcs Director Teresito Bacolcol.

Residents in affected areas are advised to limit exposure to vog by avoiding outdoor activities and keeping doors and windows closed to prevent volcanic gas from entering homes.

The public is also encouraged to wear N95 masks, stay hydrated, and seek medical attention if needed.

Taal Volcano is currently at Alert Level 1 (abnormal condition). There is a risk of sudden steam-driven or phreatic explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and dangerous accumulations or releases of volcanic gases, posing hazards to areas within the Taal Volcano Island (TVI).

Entry into TVI, a designated permanent danger zone, is strictly prohibited.

Local government units are advised to monitor SO2 levels and assess potential impacts on public health.

(Rep. by el Amigo/MNM)

STO. TOMAS City, Batangas —  Steam-driven or phreatic eruptions were observed on Saturday (20 April 2024) morning at Taal Volcano as reported in separate advisories by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD).

The eruptions occurred from 8:50 AM to 8:52 AM, followed by similar activity from 9:09 AM to 9:12 AM, according to the OCD.

Residents in Batangas living near Taal Volcano were urged to remain vigilant and adhere to the guidance provided by authorities regarding the current status of Taal.

As of the time of posting, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) has not yet issued an advisory regarding Taal’s latest phreatic eruptions.

In its most recent bulletin, issued at midnight on April 20, Saturday, Phivolcs  indicated Alert Level 1, signifying low-level unrest for Taal.

In its latest advisory, Phivolcs  reiterated that entry into Taal Volcano Island is strictly prohibited, particularly in the main crater and Daang Kastila fissures. The island has been designated as a permanent danger zone.

Boating on Taal Lake and flying aircraft close to the volcano are also prohibited.

The agency further emphasized that explosions, volcanic earthquakes, slight ashfall, and the accumulation or expulsion of toxic volcanic gases may occur in the area.

Earlier, Phivolcs reported at least five phreatic eruptions observed at the volcano on April 12, Friday, with one event lasting 13 minutes.

A phreatic eruption and a volcanic tremor at Taal were recorded by Phivolcs the following day.

(el ami)