Six Earthquakes Recorded at Taal Volcano
LUCENA CITY – Taal Volcano in Batangas province experienced at least six earthquakes within the past 24 hours, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported on Saturday, July 12. These recent seismic events are part of a notable increase in activity at the volcano.
Along with the earthquakes, two volcanic tremors lasting six to seven minutes were detected on Friday, highlighting the ongoing unrest. The keyphrase “Taal Volcano earthquakes” reflects these recent seismic shifts that continue to draw close monitoring.
Seismic Energy Shows Significant Rise
Since July 6, Phivolcs’ Taal Volcano Network stations on Taal Volcano Island—locally known as “Pulo” and situated within Taal Lake—have recorded a marked rise in real-time seismic energy measurements (RSAM). This signals escalating volcanic activity beneath the surface, officials said.
Volcanic earthquakes differ from regular quakes as they originate from volcanic processes and display unique patterns in their arrivals, frequency, and intensity. Meanwhile, volcanic tremors are continuous seismic signals with low frequencies, either regular or irregular, often indicating magma movement.
Increased Sulfur Dioxide Emissions and Plume Activity
Over the last 24 hours, Taal Volcano released approximately 1,538 metric tons of sulfur dioxide daily, a trend observed since July 9. Additionally, volcanic plumes soared up to 1,500 meters, drifting northeast and east, which Phivolcs categorized as a “voluminous emission.” Such emissions are closely monitored as indicators of the volcano’s behavior.
Despite these signs, no hot volcanic fluids surfaced in the main crater lake, and volcanic smog or “vog” was absent during the latest observations.
Alert Level 1 Remains in Effect
Phivolcs continues to maintain Alert Level 1 on Taal Volcano, signaling low-level volcanic unrest. This status emphasizes that abnormal conditions persist, and the threat of eruptions has not ceased. Sudden steam-driven or minor phreatomagmatic eruptions, small ashfall, and dangerous gas emissions remain possible, especially within Taal Volcano Island.
Authorities strongly advise the public to avoid entering the volcano’s Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ), particularly near the main crater and the Daang Kastila fissure. Additionally, civil aviation authorities are urged to keep aircraft away from the area to avoid ash hazards in the event of sudden eruptions.
Taal Volcano’s Activity History
Recognized as the Philippines’ second most active volcano, Taal has recorded 38 historical eruptions. Its unique location within a lake and its complex volcanic system make it a closely watched natural feature. Local officials and scientists remain vigilant to ensure public safety as conditions evolve.
For more news and updates on Taal Volcano earthquakes, visit Filipinokami.com.
