Taal Volcano had 3 phreatic eruptions —PHIVOLCS

Taal Volcano in Batangas had three phreatic eruption events on Friday, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said on Saturday.

The phreatic eruptions lasted from two to eight minutes and were observed from 12 a.m. Friday to 12 a.m. Saturday, PHIVOLCS said in its bulletin.

There were no volcanic earthquakes that were monitored but voluminous plumes rising up to 2,100 meters tall were observed. These plumes drifted northeast.

On Sept. 25, a total of 3,176 tons of sulfur dioxide were emitted by Taal Volcano. An upwelling of hot volcanic liquids was also observed in the Main Crater Lake.

PHIVOLCS said there is a long-term deflation of the Taal Caldera, and short-term inflation of the general northern and southeastern flanks of Taal Volcano Island.

Alert Level 1 (Low-level unrest) is still in effect at Taal Volcano on Saturday, PHIVOLCS said.

The agency reminded the public that Taal Volcano Island is a permanent danger zone and entry therein is prohibited, especially in the Main Crater and Daang Kastila fissures.

Likewise, boating and occupancy on Taal Lake is not allowed.

Flying aircraft close to Taal Volcano is also prohibited.

PHIVOLCS said 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