(Eagle News)–Five volcanic earthquakes were recorded at Taal within a 24-hour period.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said the quakes at the volcano, which remains on alert level 1, were “associated mainly with rock-fracturing processes beneath and around the edifice.”
Weak steaming was also observed from fissure vents along the Daang Kastila trail.
PHIVOLCS reminded the public that at alert level 1, “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 (TVI).”
PHIVOLCS strongly recommended 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 preparedness, contingency and communication measures in case of renewed unrest.”
People were also told to observe precautions due to “ground displacement across fissures, possible ashfall and minor earthquakes.”
PHIVOLCS is closely monitoring Taal Volcano’s activity.