by Ada Pelonia
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) released a warning on Friday as Taal Volcano spews smog or ‘vog’ that could have adverse effects to individuals when inhaled.
“Since 12:30 PM today, volcanic smog or vog has been observed over Taal Lake by the Taal Volcano Network and has lingered over the region until present,” Phivolcs said in its issued advisory.
In its 5 AM bulletin, Taal’s sulfur dioxide emissions totaled 4,569 tones per day on Thursday, Sept. 21.
Vog, which is made up of tiny droplets of acidic volcanic gas like sulfur dioxide, can irritate the eyes, throat, and respiratory system.
According to Phivolcs director Dr. Teresito Bacolcol, vog spreads easily when the steam plume emitted by the Taal volcano is strong.
Phivolcs cautioned people with asthma, heart disease, the elderly, pregnant women and children to take note of the following safety measures:
- Limit exposure by staying indoors, and keep the doors and windows shut to block out vog.
- Use an N95 face mask or gas masks to cover the nose.
- Drink water to prevent any throat irritation.
- Seek immediate help if symptoms worsen.
State volcanologists also alerted people against acid rain that occurs “during periods of rainfall and volcanic gas emission,” causing damage to crops and metal roofs.
Taal Volcano remains under Alert Level 1.
