Taal volcano releases volcanic smog; Alert Level 1 remains, says PHIVOLCS | INQToday

Summary

Taal Volcano in the Philippines remains on alert level one despite volcanic smog on August 19. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology reports 3,355 tons of sulfur dioxide released and upwelling of hot volcanic fluids. The volcano is in a state of low unrest, with recommendations against entry to the permanent danger zone and warnings of potential hazards like steam-driven explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and gas expulsions. Local municipalities have suspended classes or shifted to modular learning to mitigate exposure to volcanic smog.

Takeaways

• 🌋 Taal Volcano remains on alert level one despite the release of volcanic smog on August 19.
• 💨 The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology reported that 3,355 tons of sulfur dioxide were released by the volcano.
• 🔥 An upwelling of hot volcanic fluids was observed in the main crater of Taal Volcano.
• ⚠️ The volcano is currently in a state of low-level volcanic unrest.
• 🚫 The agency advises against entering the permanent danger zone, especially the main crater.
• 🚣‍♂️ Boating and occupancy on Taal Lake are not recommended due to potential hazards.
• 💥 Possible hazards include steam-driven, phreatic, or gas-driven explosions.
• 🏞️ Volcanic earthquakes and minor ash fall are among the risks mentioned by the agency.
• 🗣️ Public is reminded of the lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas.
• 🏫 Some municipalities in Batangas and Cavite have suspended classes or shifted to modular learning to mitigate exposure to volcanic smog.

Q & A

What is the current alert level for Taal Volcano as of the latest bulletin?

Taal Volcano is currently placed on alert level one.

When did Taal Volcano release volcanic smog?

Taal Volcano released volcanic smog on Monday, August 19.

What is the role of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology?

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology monitors and reports on volcanic activities and seismic events in the Philippines.

How much sulfur dioxide was released by Taal Volcano according to the latest bulletin?

Taal Volcano released 3,355 tons of sulfur dioxide.

What was observed in the main crater of Taal Volcano?

An upwelling of hot volcanic fluids was observed in the volcano's main crater.

What is the current state of unrest for Taal Volcano?

Taal Volcano is in a low level of volcanic unrest.

What recommendation has the agency made regarding the volcano's permanent danger zone?

The agency has recommended non-entry to the volcano's permanent danger zone, especially the main crater.

What precautions are being taken regarding activities on Taal Lake?

Occupancy and boating on Taal Lake have been cautioned against due to potential hazards.

What potential hazards have been reminded to the public by the agency?

The public has been reminded of possible hazards such as steam-driven, phreatic, or gas-driven explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ash fall, and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas.

How have some municipalities in Batangas and Cavite responded to the volcanic smog?

Some municipalities in Batangas and Cavite have announced class suspensions or a shift to modular learning to reduce exposure to the volcanic smog.

What type of learning has been implemented as an alternative to in-person classes in affected areas?

Modular learning has been implemented as an alternative to reduce exposure to the volcanic smog.