Taal Volcano Gas Emission Level Drops After Activity Spike
LUCENA CITY — The gas emission level at Taal Volcano has dropped sharply after four days of increased activity, according to local authorities. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported that sulfur dioxide emissions from the volcano’s main crater have significantly declined.
Over the past 24 hours, only 365 metric tons of sulfur dioxide were recorded, a steep fall compared to the 1,538 metric tons measured between July 8 and 12. No visible plumes were observed during the latest monitoring period, signaling a notable decrease in volcanic gas output.
Seismic Activity and Volcanic Status Update
During this time, no seismic events were detected, despite a previous rise in seismic energy levels recorded since July 6. Monitoring stations on Taal Volcano Island have closely observed these changes, but no hot fluid upwelling or volcanic smog appeared in the crater lake.
Despite the reduction in gas emissions, Taal Volcano remains under Alert Level 1. This level indicates ongoing low-level volcanic unrest, meaning that the volcano is still in an abnormal state. Residents and visitors should not assume that the risk of eruption has passed.
Alert Level 1: What It Means
Phivolcs cautioned that at Alert Level 1, sudden steam-driven or phreatic eruptions may still occur without warning. Minor ashfall and dangerous releases of volcanic gases are possible and could threaten areas within Taal Volcano Island.
Local officials urged caution and continued monitoring as the situation evolves. They emphasized that the volcano’s behavior remains unpredictable and that preparedness is essential to public safety.
For more news and updates on Taal Volcano, visit Filipinokami.com.
