Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, November 10) — Taal Volcano in Batangas recorded on Thursday its highest sulfur dioxide emission this year, according to state seismologists.
In its advisory, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said Taal emitted 11,499 tons per day of sulfur dioxide on Nov. 9.
The agency also monitored the continuous “upwelling of volcanic fluids in the Main Crater that generated rather short and weak- to moderate-volume degassing plumes.”
Philvolcs said Taal “has been continuously degassing high concentrations of volcanic SO2 since March 2021.”
Emissions since September have averaged 5,019 tons per day, it added.
While no volcanic smog or vog was observed over Taal Caldera, Phivolcs warned it may still form based on projected wind conditions.
“PAGASA wind forecasts indicate a probable weakening of wind later in the day and tomorrow, 10 November 2023, which may lead to potential SO2 accumulation and vog formation over the Taal Region,” it said.
Phivolcs reminded the public that vog is acidic and can cause irritation of the eyes, throat, and respiratory tract.
Those vulnerable include people with health conditions such as asthma, lung and heart disease, the elderly, pregnant women, and children. The agency said they should limit exposure by avoiding outdoor activities, wear N95 face masks, and drink plenty of water to reduce throat irritation.
Phivolcs also warned that acid rain can be generated during periods of rainfall and volcanic gas emission over areas where the plume disperses. This may damage crops and metal surfaces.
Taal remains under Alert Level 1, meaning it is still in an “abnormal condition and should not be interpreted to have ceased unrest nor ceased the threat of eruptive activity.”
Since Sept. 1, Phivolcs said it recorded 415 volcanic earthquakes in Taal, including 362 weak tremors associated with volcanic gas activity.
The agency added that entry into Taal’s Permanent Danger Zone, especially the vicinities of the Main Crater and the Daang Kastila fissure, must remain strictly prohibited.
