CTTO/Inquirer.net
Manila, Philippines — On Saturday, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported that Taal Volcano experienced two brief phreatic events. These events produced steam-laden plumes rising 800 meters above the Main Crater before drifting southwest, as observed through IP camera monitors.
Phivolcs also noted sulfur dioxide emissions averaging over 6,570 tonnes per day on June 28. Despite these activities, the agency stated that a magmatic eruption is unlikely based on current observations. The volcano remains at Alert Level 1, indicating a low level of volcanic unrest.
In an advisory, Phivolcs urged local authorities to stay vigilant and prepare for potential hazards from ongoing phreatic activities. “Local government units are advised to continuously monitor and assess the preparedness of their communities and undertake appropriate response measures to mitigate hazards that could be posed by long-term degassing and related phreatic activity,” the advisory read.
In the past 24 hours, Taal Volcano registered one volcanic earthquake, which was induced by rising lava or magma beneath the active volcano. The earthquake was detected between midnight on Friday and midnight on Saturday.
Additionally, Phivolcs reported that on June 28, Taal released 6,571 tons (5,956 metric tons) of sulfur dioxide, and a 1,800-meter-tall plume drifted northwest. The agency also noted a long-term deflation of the Taal Caldera, alongside short-term inflation of the general northern and southeastern flanks of the Taal Volcano Island.
Local authorities and residents are advised to stay informed and prepared as Phivolcs continues to monitor the situation closely.