Active sulfur dioxide degassing observed in Taal Volcano - PHIVOLCS

State volcanologists on Thursday monitored an increase in degassing activity from Taal Volcano in Batangas.

In an advisory, the volcano’s main crater emitted 11,072 tonnes of volcanic sulfur dioxide. But this is still lower than the sulfur dioxide emission of 18,638 tonnes recorded last March 28. 

PHIVOLCS said Taal Volcano has continuously degassing “voluminous concentrations” of sulfur dioxide since 2021 and has emitted an average of 8,294 tonnes a day this year. 

Hazy conditions were reported over the towns of Alitagtag, Tingloy, San Nicolas, Laurel, Taysan, Lobo and Batangas City and observed during field survey in Agoncillo, Lemery, Taal, Santa Teresita, Alitagtag, Cuenca, Lipa, Balete, and Malvar, PHIVOLCS added. 

The agency also forecasted that a probable weakening of the wind  in the coming days may lead to possible sulfur dioxide accumulation and vog formation over Taal area.

“Prolonged exposure to volcanic SO2 can cause irritation of the eyes, throat and respiratory tract. People who may be particularly sensitive are those with health conditions such as asthma, lung disease and heart disease, the elderly, pregnant women and children,” said PHIVOLCS. State volcanologists advised residents near the volcano to stay indoors and shut windows to prevent inhalation of volcanic gas.

It added that wearing of N95 masks is highly encouraged and drinking plenty of water could reduce any throat irritation.

Taal Volcano remains under Alert Level 1, but the public are still warned of possible hazards like sudden phreatic explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas.

Entry into the Taal Volcano Island and the permanent danger zone is prohibited, and the vicinity of the volcano is a no-fly zone.—Vince Ferreras/RF, GMA Integrated News