In the past 24-hour period, the Taal Volcano Network recorded thirty (30) volcanic earthquakes, including twenty-three (23) volcanic tremor events having durations of 2 to 5 minutes, four (4) low-frequency volcanic earthquakes, three (3) hybrid volcanic earthquakes and low-level background tremor that has persisted since July 7, 2021. Three (3) short-lived phreatomagmatic bursts were recorded at 8:11 AM, 8:17 PM and 8:34 PM yesterday, that lasted 1 to 5 minutes based on the seismic record. These events produced plumes 200 to 1,500 meters tall that drifted southwest. Activity at the Main Crater was dominated by upwelling of hot volcanic fluids in its lake which generated plumes 2,100 meters tall that drifted southwest. Sulfur dioxide (SO2) emission averaged 6,643 tonnes/day on 22 November 2021. Based on ground deformation parameters from electronic tilt, continuous GPS and InSAR monitoring, Taal Volcano Island has been inflating since August 2021 while the Taal region continues to undergo very slow extension since 2020.
Alert Level 2 (Increased Unrest) prevails over Taal Volcano. DOST-PHIVOLCS reminds the public that at Alert Level 2, 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. DOST-PHIVOLCS strongly recommends that entry into Taal Volcano Island, Taal’s Permanent Danger Zone or PDZ must be strictly prohibited, especially the vicinities of the Main Crater and the Daang Kastila fissure, and extended stays on Taal Lake. 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
