PHIVOLCS: Taal Volcano volcanic tremor still ongoing since July 20

Two volcanic earthquakes including one ongoing volcanic tremor event since July 20 have been recorded at Taal Volcano in Batangas in the past 24 hours, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) said Saturday.

The said volcanic tremor has been ongoing since 5:04 a.m. of July 20, according to PHIVOLCS' bulletin. 

Some 3,305 tonnes of sulfur dioxide was emitted by the volcano on July 19. PHIVOLCS observed an upwelling of hot volcanic fluids in the Main Crater Lake.

Meanwhile, voluminous plumes were emitted from the crater rising up to 2,400 meters high. These plumes drifted southwest and west-southwest.

Taal Volcano Island's northern flank is still inflated, PHIVOLCS said.

Alert Level 1 (Low-level unrest) continues to be in effect at Taal Volcano, PHIVOLCS said.

It reiterated its recommendation to keep Taal Volcano Island's permanent danger zone or PDZ, especially the Main Crater and Daang Kastila fissures, off limits.

PHIVOLCS also said occupancy and boating at Taal Lake is prohibited.

Likewise, flying any aircraft close to Taal Volcano is not allowed.

PHIVOLCS said at Taal Volcano may have steam-driven or phreatic or gas-driven explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas. —KG, GMA Integrated News