Increased volcanic quakes logged in Taal

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said it has logged an increase in the number of volcanic earthquakes in Taal in the past 24 hours.

In its volcano bulletin, Phivolcs recorded 79 volcanic earthquakes, which lasted 2 to 5 minutes, in the Taal Volcano Network on Tuesday, 31 October.

Taal Volcano's acidity level at the main crater lake is maintained at 0.40 while the temperature is at 74.3 ℃.

Phivolcs logged an emission of 7,084 tons of sulfur dioxide daily with the upwelling of hot volcanic fluids in the Main Crater lake being observed.

Taal emitted 900 meters-tall voluminous plumes, drifting in southwest directions.

Phivolcs also observed short-term inflation of the northern flanks of the Taal Volcano Island while there's a long-term deflation in the Taal Caldera.

Taal Volcano remains under the Alert Level 1 category, which means it is still under "low-level unrest."

Thus, Phivolcs warned the public against possible hazards that may occur including steam-driven or phreatic or gas-driven explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas.

Public entry into the Permanent Danger Zone, especially the Main Crater and Daang Kastila fissures, and occupancy and boating on Taal Lake shall be prohibited.

Flying any aircraft close to the volcano is also not allowed.