5 weak explosions recorded in Taal Volcano

Aerial shot of Taal Volcano. Phivolcs and the NDDRMC, with Armed Forces of the Philippines and some reporters, flew on a Huey 2 helicopter for its first successful aerial inspection of the damage brought about by the Jan 12 eruption of the Taal Volcano. Photo by Clifford Nuñez

MANILA, Philippines — Five “discrete weak explosions” were recorded in Taal Volcano since Friday morning, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said.

In its 5 p.m. update on Friday, Phivolcs said that since 8 a.m., the activity in Taal Volcano has been generally characterized by weak emission of steam-laden plumes reaching 800 meters high from the main crater that drifted to southwest.

Meanwhile, since 5 a.m. to 4 p.m., a total of 19 volcanic earthquakes were monitored. This brings the total number of quakes to 653 since 1 p.m. Jan. 12 (Sunday), 174 of which were felt with intensities ranging from I to V.

Phivolcs said that this signifies “continuous magmatic intrusion beneath the Taal edifice,” which could lead to further eruptive activities.

Alert Level 4 remains in effect over Taal Volcano, meaning a hazardous explosion is still possible within hours to days.

“Phivolcs strongly reiterates total evacuation of Taal Volcano Island and high-risk areas as identified in the hazard maps within the 14-kilometer radius from Taal main crater and along the Pansipit River Valley where fissuring has been observed,” the agency said.

Residents around Taal Volcano are urged to guard against the effects of heavy and prolonged ashfall. Further, Phivolcs said civil aviation authorities must direct pilots to avoid the airspace around the volcano.

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Edited by JPV