Phivolcs records increased sulfur dioxide degassing in Taal Volcano

MANILA, Philippines — Increased sulfur dioxide (SO) degassing was observed in Taal Volcano on Thursday, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).

Phivolcs said that a total of 11,072 tonnes per day of volcanic SO gas emission was measured from the Taal Main Crater on Thursday.

READ: Taal Volcano blows off steam, but no lava—Phivolcs

“Taal has averaged approximately 8,294 tonnes/day for the year and has been continuously degassing voluminous concentrations of SO since 2021,” Phivolcs said in an advisory late Thursday night.

Due to the degassing activity, hazy conditions were reported over Alitagtag, Tingloy, San Nicolas, Laurel, Taysan, Lobo, and Batangas City, as well as Lemery, Taal, Santa Teresita, Alitagtag, Cuenca, Lipa, Balete, and Malvar.

Meanwhile, Pagasa warned the public of the harmful effects of prolonged exposure to volcanic SO, such as irritation of the eyes, throat, and respiratory tract, especially among those who have underlying health conditions such as asthma and lung and heart disease.

Elderly individuals, pregnant women, and children are also vulnerable to volcanic SO.

“Pagasa also forecasts a probable weakening of wind in the coming days which may lead to potential SOz accumulation and vog formation over Taal region,” warned Phivolcs.

Due to this, Phivolcs reminded the public to limit exposure to SO by avoiding outdoor activities and shutting doors and windows to block out volcanic gas.

Nearby residents are advised to cover their noses with an N95 facemask when outside, keep hydrated, and seek help from doctors and medical workers once they experience discomfort.

Alert Level 1 in Taal

Meanwhile, Phivolcs reminded the public that Taal Volcano is still under Alert Level 1, which signifies abnormal conditions and “should not be interpreted to have ceased unrest nor ceased the threat of eruptive activity.”

Phivolcs warned that under Alert Level 1, besides degassing high concentrations of volcanic SO, sudden steam-driven or phreatic explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas may still occur.

Entry to Taal’s permanent danger zone (PDZ) also remains prohibited, especially within the vicinity of the main crater and Daang Kastilla fissure.

“Local government units are advised to continuously monitor and assess volcanic SO2 exposure of, and potential impacts on, their communities and undertake appropriate response measures to mitigate these hazards,” Phivolcs said.