Since 8:00 AM this morning, Taal Volcano’s activity has been generally characterized by weak emission of steam-laden plumes 500 to 800 meters high from the Main Crater that drifted to the general southwest. A total of two (2) discrete weak ash explosions were observed.
The Philippine Seismic Network (PSN) plotted a total of six hundred seventy-three (673) volcanic earthquakes since 1:00 PM, January 12, 2020. One hundred seventy-five (175) of these were felt with intensities ranging from Intensity I to V. Since 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM today, there were thirteen (13) volcanic earthquakes plotted.
From 5:00 AM to 4:00 PM today, the Taal Volcano Network, which includes small earthquakes undetectable by the PSN, recorded three hundred sixty-six (366) volcanic earthquakes, three (3) tremor events, and eight (8) low-frequency earthquakes. Such intense seismic activity likely signifies continuous magmatic intrusion beneath the Taal edifice, which may lead to further eruptive activity.
Latest sulfur dioxide (SO2) emission was measured at an average of 1442 tonnes/day today at 5:00 PM.
Alert Level 4 still remains in effect over Taal Volcano. This means that hazardous explosive eruption is possible within hours to days. DOST-PHIVOLCS strongly reiterates total evacuation of Taal Volcano Island and high-risk areas as identified in the hazard maps within the 14-km radius from Taal Main Crater and along the Pansipit River Valley where fissuring has been observed. Residents around Taal Volcano are advised to guard against the effects of heavy and prolonged ashfall. Civil aviation authorities must advise pilots to avoid the airspace around Taal Volcano as airborne ash and ballistic fragments from the eruption column pose hazards to aircraft. DOST-PHIVOLCS is continually monitoring the eruption and will update all stakeholders of further developments. (DOST-PHIVOLCS)
