Increased Volcanic Earthquakes at Taal Volcano
LUCENA CITY—Taal Volcano’s recent activity shows a notable rise in seismic events, with reports confirming 18 volcanic earthquakes and 17 volcanic tremors within the past 24 hours. These developments highlight the ongoing unrest beneath this active Philippine volcano, intensifying monitoring efforts, officials reported.
The presence of volcanic earthquakes and tremors signals dynamic changes beneath the surface. Volcanic earthquakes, originating from movement and pressure shifts inside the volcano, exhibit distinct wave patterns, periods, and amplitudes. Conversely, volcanic tremors are continuous seismic vibrations that occur in irregular or regular waves of low frequency, according to sources involved in monitoring.
Detailed Observations and Emissions
Between August 1 and 9, only four volcanic earthquakes and one volcanic tremor were recorded, underscoring the recent spike in seismic events. The latest tremors lasted between two and five minutes each, demonstrating persistent underground activity, local geologists noted.
Furthermore, Saturday’s observations revealed the emission of 374 metric tons of sulfur dioxide from Taal’s main crater. Plumes rose as high as 1,200 meters, a volume classified as voluminous emission by monitoring teams. Importantly, there was no evidence of hot volcanic fluids surfacing in the crater lake, located at the volcano’s center within Taal Lake. Additionally, no volcanic smog or vog was observed during the latest surveillance period, community members said.
Current Alert Status and Historical Context
The Philippine volcano remains under Alert Level 1, a status signaling the possibility of weak phreatic eruptions or minor steam-driven explosions in response to increased seismic activity. This alert cautions residents and authorities to stay alert without indicating immediate large-scale danger, sources explained.
Taal Volcano, situated in Batangas province and nestled within Taal Lake, is the Philippines’ second most active volcano. It has recorded 38 historical eruptions, including its significant January 2020 eruption, which forced hundreds of thousands of residents to evacuate the 14-kilometer danger zone around the volcano, officials shared.
Comparatively, Mayon Volcano in nearby Albay province remains the most active volcano, having erupted more than 50 times in the last 500 years, geological records confirm.
For more news and updates on Taal Volcano activity, visit Filipinokami.com.
