State seismologists have recorded an increase in real-time seismic energy measurement (RSAM) from Taal Volcano since January 4, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) said Monday.
PHIVOLCS also noted the absence of a degassing plume from Taal Volcano since the start of RSAM increase.
It said the volcano has been emitting “sustained levels” of sulfur dioxide (SO2) for the past four years with the latest emission recorded on December 30, 2024 averaging 2.753 tonnes a day of SO2.
“The sharp increase in RSAM and the lack of observable degassing from the Main Crater may indicate blockage or plugging of volcanic gas pathways within the volcano, which may lead to short-term pressurization and trigger a phreatic or even a minor phreatomagmatic eruption,” the state seismologists explained.
Since January 1, PHIVOLCS only logged 12 volcanic earthquakes which includes six tremor events.
The bureau reminded the public that Alert Level 1 remains hoisted over the volcano due to its “abnormal condition” and should not be interpreted that it will no longer erupt.
“At Alert Level 1, sudden steam-driven or phreatic or minor phreatomagmatic eruptions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas can occur and threaten areas within TVI,” PHIVOLCS advised.
It added degassing of high concentrations of volcanic sulfur dioxide continues to pose long-term health impact to communities around Taal Caldera that are frequently exposed to volcanic gas.
Entry into the Taal Volcano Island and the permanent danger zone is prohibited and the vicinity of the volcano is a no-fly zone.—Vince Angelo Ferreras/AOL, GMA Integrated News
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