Taal Volcano located in Batangas province spewed the highest sulfur dioxide (SO2) in 2023 on Thursday, Oct. 12, according to the state seismologist.
In its volcano bulletin issued at 6PM, PHIVOLCS said the Taal Volcano’s main crater spewed 9,762 tonnes per day of sulfur, the highest record this year.
"Visual monitors show continue upwelling of volcanic fluids in the Main Crater that generated rather short and weak to moderate volume degassing plumes,” it added.
The state seismologist said it has yet to observe volcanic smog or vog over Taal Caldera, but noted that vog would increase as wind speed was predicted to "significantly decrease over the weekend."
"Taals has been continously degassing high concentrations of volcanic SO2 since March 2021; emissions since September have averaged 3,781 tonnes / day," PHIVOLCS said.
Taal Volcano remains under Alert Level 1, indicating that it is exhibiting a low level of unrest.
The state seismologist continuously reminds Batangas residents that entry into Taal Volcano's main crater and the Daang Kastila fissure, which are considered permanent danger zones, are still prohibited.
It also advised residents living near Taal to take necessary precautions such as limiting exposure and protecting themselves through masking and stay hydrated.
"In addition, acid rain can be generated during periods of rainfall and volcanic gas emission over areas where the plume disperses, causing damage to crops and affecting metal roofs of houses and buildings," PHIVOLCS said.
