(Eagle News) — Twenty volcanic earthquakes were monitored at Taal within 24 hours, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said on Sunday, Aug. 23.
According to PHIVOLCS, weak steaming rising five meters was also observed from the vents on the main crater of the volcano, which remains on alert level 1.
PHIVOLCS reminded the public, however, that “sudden steam-driven or phreatic explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas” can occur and threaten areas within the Taal Volcano Island.
PHIVOLCS reiterated its recommendation that entry into TVI, Taal’s Permanent Danger Zone or PDZ, especially the vicinities of the Main Crater and the Daang Kastila fissure, remain strictly prohibited.
Local government units were advised to “continuously assess previously evacuated barangays around Taal Lake for damages and road accessibilities” and to strengthen their preparedness, contingency, and communication measures “in case of renewed unrest.”
“People are also advised to observe precautions due to ground displacement across fissures, possible ashfall, and minor earthquakes,” PHIVOLCS said.