September 18, 2023

News #2

Phivolcs warns of volcanic smog over Taal

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 15) – Volcanic smog or vog – an
acidic gas which can severely irritate the eyes, throat, and respiratory tract – has
been detected over the Taal lake since Friday morning, state volcanologists
warned.

The gas is particularly harmful to individuals with asthma, lung disease, heart
disease, the elderly, pregnant women, and children, according to the Philippine
Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).

The entire Taal region has been affected by vog since the first week of September
due to Taal Volcano’s continuous degassing activity.

“Continuous upwelling at the Taal Main Crater Lake formed steam plumes that
rose 3,000-meters high before drifting off to the north-northwest,” it said.

“In addition, a total of 3,264 tonnes/day of volcanic sulfur dioxide or SO2 gas
emission from the Taal Main Crater was also measured today.”

Phivolcs urged nearby residents to limit exposure by staying indoors and keeping
windows and doors closed. It also recommended the use of an N95 face mask and
to drink plenty of water.

Taal Volcano remains under Alert Level 1. This means the caldera is in abnormal
condition and “should not be interpreted to have ceased unrest nor ceased the threat
of eruptive activity.”