Volcanic smog or vog seen over Taal Volcano caldera

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) on Monday said volcanic smog or vog was seen over the Taal Volcano caldera.

This is due to the continued emission of volcanic sulfur dioxide (SO2) from the main crater, it said.

PHIVOLCS said the volcano emitted high levels of volcanic SO2 and steam-rich plumes the past two days. The plumes rose as much as three kilometers high above the main crater.

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— PHIVOLCS-DOST (@phivolcs_dost) June 27, 2021

"SO2 flux yesterday, 27 June 2021, averaged 4,771 tonnes/day while atmospheric temperatures of 30ºC, relative humidity of 75% and wind velocities that slowed to 1 to 0 meters/second at near-surface levels prevailed over Taal Volcano Island based on All-Weather Systems station data." it said.

"These atmospheric conditions, especially the near-absence of air movement, resulted in the formation of volcanic smog or vog that brought a pronounced haze over the Taal Caldera region," PHIVOLCS said.

It added that should more vog be formed, residents should take the necessary precautions.

"Should SO2 gas emission continue at the same rate (past week average of ~4,330 tonnes/day) or increase and atmospheric conditions promote the formation of vog, communities surrounding Taal Lake are advised to take necessary precautions," PHIVOLCS said.

According to PHIVOLCS, vog is a type of air pollution caused by volcanoes.

"It consists of fine droplets containing volcanic gas such as SO2 which is acidic and can cause irritation of the eyes, throat and respiratory tract in severities depending on the gas concentrations and durations of exposure," it said.

Those sensitive to such ill effects of vog are those with asthma, lung disease and heart disease, as well as the elderly, pregnant women and children, PHIVOLCS said.

Residents nearby were advised to limit their exposure to vog by avoiding outdoor activities, staying indoors, and shutting doors and windows.

PHIVOLCS also urged the public to protect themselves and cover the nose, preferably with an N95 face mask.

“Drink plenty of water to reduce any throat irritation or constriction,” it added.

PHIVOLCS also advised residents to seek medical attention if needed.

Alert Level 2 remains hoisted over Taal Volcano.

This means the volcano may at any time have steam- or gas-driven explosions and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas.

PHIVOLCS reiterated that Taal Volcano Island should remain off limits. —KG, GMA News