Three short-lived phreatomagmatic bursts at the Taal Main Crater were recorded today at 8:11 AM, 8:17 PM and 8:34 PM that lasted 1 to 5 minutes, based on the seismic signals. These events produced plumes 200 to 1,500 meters tall based on thermal camera monitoring. There have been six phreatomagmatic bursts since November 15 that are likely driven by fracturing and gas release from resting magma beneath the Taal Volcano Island.

DOST-PHIVOLCS reminds the public that Alert Level 2 (Increased Unrest) prevails over Taal Volcano and that sudden steam- or gas-driven explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas can occur and threaten areas within and around TVI. At Alert Level 2, entry into Taal Volcano Island, Taal’s Permanent Danger Zone or PDZ especially the vicinities of the Main Crater and the Daang Kastila fissure, and extended stay on Taal Lake, must be strictly prohibited. Local government officials are advised to continuously assess and strengthen the preparedness of previously evacuated barangays around Taal Lake in case of renewed unrest. Civil aviation authorities must advise pilots to avoid flying close to the volcano as airborne ash and ballistic fragments from sudden explosions and wind-remobilized ash may pose hazards to aircraft. DOST-PHIVOLCS is closely monitoring Taal Volcano’s activity and any new significant development will be immediately communicated to all stakeholders.

DOST-PHIVOLCS