11 more volcanic earthquakes recorded in Taal Volcano
MANILA, Philippines — Eleven volcanic earthquakes were recorded in the last 24 hours within the vicinity of the Taal Volcano, where alert level 1 remains raised, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) on Wednesday.
The volcanic earthquakes are “associated mainly with rock-fracturing processes beneath and around the edifice,” according to Phivolcs’s 8 a.m. bulletin.
“Weak steaming or fumarolic activity rising 100 meters high before drifting southwest was observed from vents on the Main Crater and fissure vents along the Daang Kastila Trail,” it added.
Under 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 the Taal Volcano Island (TVI).
Phivolcs recommends that entry into TVI, Taal’s Permanent Danger Zone or PDZ, especially the vicinities of the Main Crater and the Daang Kastila fissure, must remain strictly prohibited.
“Local government units are advised to continuously assess previously evacuated barangays around Taal Lake for damages and road accessibilities and to strengthen preparedness, contingency and communication measures in case of renewed unrest,” said Phivolcs.
It likewise warned people to observe precautions due to ground displacement across fissures, possible ashfall and minor earthquakes.
The Taal Volcano Network (TVN) can record smaller earthquakes undetectable by the Philippine Seismic Network (PSN).
Taal Volcano’s restiveness started on January 12 when it began spewing ash. The alert level was raised to level 4 on the evening of that day, meaning hazardous eruption was imminent. The alert level was later lowered to level 1 on March 19 after the volcano showed decreased activity.
Phivolcs’ bulletin for the Taal Volcano at 8 a.m. on Tuesday (May 19) showed 15 volcanic earthquakes were recorded in the area. On Monday’s (May 18) bulletin, 11 volcanic earthquakes were reported by the Taal Volcano Network.
A total of 13 volcanic earthquakes were reported by Phivolcs on Sunday (May 17), 11 on Saturday (May 16), and only two on Friday (May 15).
