Taal Volcano observed to have increased, continuous degassing —PHIVOLCS

Taal Volcano in Batangas has been exhibiting continuous increased degassing activity since Saturday night, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) said Sunday.

The degassing has increased since 10:30 p.m. Saturday, PHIVOLCS said in an advisory, adding that there was "visible upswelling of volcanic fluids in the Main Crater Lake."

This led to voluminous steam-rich plumes that rose up to 3,000 meters above Taal Volcano Island or TVI, the agency said.

As a result, significant volcanic smog or vog over Taal Caldera was produced.

Vog was also seen by residents in the municipalities of Balete, Laurel, and Agocillo in Batangas.

PHIVOLCS said Taal Volcano has emitted a total of 5,831 tonnes/day of volcanic sulfur dioxide on June 1. This was higher than the 3,556 tonnes/day average sulfur dioxide emission in May.

Alert Level 1 (Low-Level Unrest) remains in effect over Taal Volcano.

"At Alert Level 1, sudden steam-driven or phreatic explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas can occur and threaten areas within TVI," PHIVOLCS said.

The agency reiterated that entry into TVI, the permanent danger zone (PDZ) of Taal Volcano, especially the vicinities of the Main Crater and Daang Kastila fissure, should be strictly prohibited.

Likewise, flying aircraft close to Taal Volcano is prohibited as airborne ash and ballistic fragments from sudden explosions and wind-remobilized ash may be hazardous.

PHIVOLCS reminded the public to limit their exposure to vog by avoiding outdoor activities, staying indoors, and shutting doors and windows.

It also urged the public to protect themselves by covering their nose ideally with an N95 face mask, drinking plenty of water, and seeking medical attention if needed.

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

Those sensitive to vog are those with asthma, lung disease and heart disease, as well as the elderly, pregnant women, and children.

"Acid rain can be generated during periods of rainfall and volcanic gas emission over areas where the plume disperses, causing damage to crops and affecting metal roofs of houses and buildings," PHIVOLCS said. —KG, GMA Integrated News