More tremors logged around Taal

Taal Volcano continues to be restive as state volcanologists recorded more tremor activities in the past 24 hours.

According to the latest bulletin released by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) on Thursday, 91 volcanic earthquakes with durations of one to five minutes were registered, a big jump from the 69 recorded the other day.

“Activity in the Main Crater consisted of weak emission of white steam-laden plumes from fumaroles that rose 5 meters high,” part of the advisory read.

The agency maintains its recommendation to bar entry to the Taal Volcano Island (TVI), the Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) – especially the vicinities of the Main Crater, and the Daang Kastila fissure as the latest activities could be signs of another phreatic eruption similar to what happened in 2020.

Phivolcs is likewise keeping Taal Volcano under Alert Level 1, meaning the volcano is in an “abnormal state” and sudden steam-driven or phreatic explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas may occur.

Local government units within close proximity of the volcano are also advised “to continuously assess previously evacuated barangays around Taal Lake for damage and road accessibilities and to strengthen preparedness, contingency, and communication measures in case of renewed unrest.”

Flying close to the volcano is still discouraged as airborne ash and ballistic fragments from sudden explosions and wind-remobilized ash may pose hazards to aircraft.

Local Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and Air Force personnel have joined forces to warn fisherfolks living near the shores of neighboring municipalities and convince them to heed authorities’ call for a preemptive evacuation.

One particular locality under tight watch is Barangay San Isidro in Talisay, Batangas as this is within the PDZ.