Ongoing Seismic Activity at Taal Volcano
Seismic activity at Taal Volcano in Batangas province continues to draw close attention, officials reported on Monday, September 8. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) confirmed that volcanic earthquakes and tremors have persisted over the past week, signaling ongoing unrest beneath the volcano.
Phivolcs recorded 21 volcanic earthquakes within the last 24 hours, accompanied by 16 volcanic tremors lasting between two to four minutes each. These findings highlight the sustained seismic activity at Taal Volcano, reinforcing the agency’s alert status.
Detailed Seismic Observations from September 1 to 8
Between September 1 and 8, a total of 86 volcanic earthquakes and 78 volcanic tremors were documented. Local geologists explained that volcanic earthquakes originate from magmatic or magma-related processes beneath or near the volcano, distinguishing them from tectonic earthquakes caused by fault movements.
Volcanic tremors, characterized by continuous seismic signals with low frequencies ranging from 0.5 to 5 Hz, can last over a minute. These tremors may result from magma or magmatic gas resonating through cracks and vents, overlapping low-frequency earthquakes, or even magma eruptions.
Current Emissions and Visual Observations
In its latest bulletin, Phivolcs reported the emission of 3,356 metric tons of sulfur dioxide from Taal’s main crater, with the plume rising approximately 750 meters high. This emission level is categorized as “weak,” indicating a moderate level of volcanic gas release.
Authorities also noted that no upwelling of hot volcanic fluids was observed in the crater lake located at the center of Taal Volcano Island. Furthermore, no volcanic smog or vog was detected during the recent monitoring period, suggesting limited surface volcanic activity.
Alert Level and Safety Precautions
The current Alert Level 1 remains in effect, signaling low-level unrest at Taal Volcano. Despite this, experts caution that sudden steam-driven or phreatic eruptions, minor phreatomagmatic activity, ashfall, and the release of volcanic gases remain possible.
Authorities continue to enforce a strict no-entry policy for Taal Volcano Island, especially within the permanent danger zone encompassing the main crater and the Daang Kastila trail. Flights over the island are also discouraged due to the risk posed by ash from sudden eruptions.
Historical Context and Preparedness
Taal Volcano last erupted in January 2020, ending a quiet period of over 40 years. That eruption forced the evacuation of hundreds of thousands of residents within the 14-kilometer danger zone. Community members emphasize the importance of remaining vigilant, given Taal’s status as the country’s second most active volcano with 38 historical eruptions recorded.
Local officials urge residents and visitors to stay updated with official advisories and respect all safety guidelines to minimize risks associated with the volcano’s activity.
For more news and updates on Taal Volcano seismic activity, visit Filipinokami.com.
