Taal Volcano remains under ‘decreased unrest’ — Phivolcs

MANILA, Philippines — Taal Volcano remains under Alert Level 2 or “decreased unrest,” a day after its lowering of status, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said Sunday.

According to Phivolcs, however, Taal Volcano’s status may be raised back to Alert Level 3 should changes in trends forewarn of a potential eruption.

READ: Phivolcs lowers Taal Volcano status to Alert Level 2

In the last 24 hours, Phivolcs recorded 10 volcanic earthquakes, including eight quakes that lasted one to 23 minutes and two low frequency earthquakes.

The agency added that it continues to monitor a low-level background tremor that has persisted since July 7, 2021.

High levels of volcanic sulfur dioxide (SO2) gas emissions and steam-rich plumes that reached 1000 meters before drifting to the northeast were generated from the Taal Main Crater, with SO2 emission averaging 4,553 tons per day on July 23.

Even with “decreased unrest” hoisted over Taal, Phivolcs reminded that sudden steam explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas can still occur and threaten areas within and around the volcano.

Because of this, entry into Taal Volcano Island, Taal’s Permanent Danger Zone, especially the vicinities of the Main Crater and the Daang Kastila fissure, and occupancy and boating on Taal Lake are strictly prohibited.

“Phivolcs is closely monitoring Taal Volcano’s activity and any new significant development will be immediately communicated to all stakeholders,” its latest monitoring report read.

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