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Advocates Philippines
Taal Volcano Advisory: Volcanic Smog (VOG) Persists, Alert Level 1 Maintained
Photo credit: Phivolcs
In a recent update from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS), the Taal Volcano continues to exhibit signs of unrest, with volcanic smog, or VOG, persisting in the area. As of 5:30 PM on September 21, 2023, several key observations have been made regarding Taal Volcano's activity.
Since 12:30 PM on the same day, the Taal Volcano Network has reported the presence of volcanic smog over Taal Lake, which has lingered over the region.
Continuous upwelling at the Taal Main Crater Lake has resulted in the generation of steam plumes that reached heights of up to 2,400 meters before drifting west-northwest.
Additionally, a substantial release of volcanic sulfur dioxide (SO2) gas, totaling 4,569 tonnes per day, was measured on September 21, 2023.
Satellite monitoring also detected a large cloud of SO2 extending west of Taal Lake. This prolonged period of VOG has been affecting the Taal Region since early September, with an average SO2 degassing rate of 3,402 tonnes per day for the month.
VOG consists of fine droplets containing volcanic gases such as acidic SO2, which can irritate the eyes, throat, and respiratory tract, with the severity of effects depending on gas concentrations and exposure duration.
Particularly vulnerable individuals, including those with asthma, lung disease, heart disease, the elderly, pregnant women, and children, are advised to take precautionary measures.
Precautions for Communities Affected by VOG:
1. Limit Exposure: Avoid outdoor activities, stay indoors, and keep doors and windows closed to minimize VOG exposure.
2. Protect Yourself: Use N95 facemasks to cover your nose, stay hydrated to reduce throat irritation, and seek medical assistance if you experience severe symptoms.
Furthermore, during periods of rainfall, acid rain can be generated due to volcanic gas emissions over areas where the VOG plume disperses.
This can potentially damage crops and affect metal roofs on houses and buildings.
DOST-PHIVOLCS reminds the public that Alert Level 1 remains in effect for Taal Volcano, signifying an abnormal condition with ongoing unrest.
This alert level does not indicate a cessation of the threat of eruptive activity. Any significant changes in monitored parameters may prompt an adjustment in the alert level, either upward to Alert Level 2 in the event of increased unrest or downward to Alert Level 0 if parameters return to baseline levels after a suitable observation period.
At Alert Level 1, potential hazards include sudden steam-driven or phreatic explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and dangerous accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas, especially within the Taal Volcano Island (TVI).
Entry into TVI and the Taal Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ), particularly around the Main Crater and Daang Kastila fissure, remains strictly prohibited.
Local government units are urged to assess previously evacuated barangays around Taal Lake for damages and road accessibilities while strengthening preparedness, contingency, and communication measures for renewed unrest.
Additionally, people are advised to be cautious due to ground displacement across fissures, potential ashfall, and minor earthquakes.
Civil aviation authorities have been advised to caution pilots to avoid flying close to the volcano due to the hazards posed by airborne ash and ballistic fragments resulting from sudden explosions and wind-remobilized ash.
DOST-PHIVOLCS is actively monitoring Taal Volcano's activity, and any significant developments will be promptly communicated to all stakeholders. As of the latest update on September 22, 2023, Taal Volcano remains at Alert Level 1, with specific parameters indicating ongoing seismic activity, SO2 emissions, and ground deformation.
Current Parameters (as of September 22, 2023):
• Seismicity: 5 volcanic tremors (20 to 575 minutes long)
• Acidity at Main Crater Lake: 0.48 (21 February 2023)
• Temperature at Main Crater Lake: 74.8 ℃ (12 August 2023)
• Sulfur Dioxide Flux: 4,569 tonnes/day (21 September 2023) with pronounced upwelling of hot volcanic fluids in the Main Crater Lake, accompanied by VOG observations
• Plume: 2,400 meters tall with voluminous emission, drifting west-southwest and southwest
• Ground Deformation: Long-term deflation of the Taal Caldera and short-term inflation of the northern flanks of the Taal Volcano Island
Air Quality Index (AQI) and PM2.5 Air Pollution in National Capital Region:
• Las Pinas: 211 (Very Unhealthy)
• Pasig: 186 (Unhealthy)
• Caloocan: 166 (Unhealthy)
• Makati: 163 (Unhealthy)
• Mandaluyong: 158 (Unhealthy)
• Quezon City: 158 (Unhealthy)
• Taguig: 158 (Unhealthy)
• Paranaque: 145 (Unhealthy for sensitive groups)
In a related news, The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has clarified that the persistent smog affecting the residents of Metro Manila is unrelated to Taal Volcano's volcanic smog or vog.
In an interview with PTV's Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon, DOST Secretary and Phivolcs Officer-in-Charge Renato Solidum emphasized that the source of the smog in Metro Manila is pollution, primarily stemming from vehicles and industrial activities.
Secretary Solidum highlighted the distinction between the smog in Metro Manila and the volcanic emissions from Taal Volcano, stating, "We should remember that what is happening in Metro Manila is different from Taal Volcano. The entire Metro Manila and its neighboring provinces are experiencing what PAGASA refers to as thermal invasion."
"Thermal invasion is prevalent," Solidum continued, "but in Metro Manila, the source of the smoke is pollution originating from vehicles."
He further urged the public to take precautions against the health effects of smog and vog. Solidum recommended wearing face masks as a protective measure and advised, "Smog has health effects, so it's a good practice to wear face masks. If it's not necessary to go outside, it's advisable to keep doors and windows closed."
The clarification from the DOST comes as Metro Manila residents have been grappling with deteriorating air quality, prompting concerns about its impact on public health.
In a recent update from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS), the Taal Volcano continues to exhibit signs of unrest, with volcanic smog, or VOG, persisting in the area. As of 5:30 PM on September 21, 2023, several key observations have been made regarding Taal Volcano's activity.
Since 12:30 PM on the same day, the Taal Volcano Network has reported the presence of volcanic smog over Taal Lake, which has lingered over the region.
Continuous upwelling at the Taal Main Crater Lake has resulted in the generation of steam plumes that reached heights of up to 2,400 meters before drifting west-northwest.
Additionally, a substantial release of volcanic sulfur dioxide (SO2) gas, totaling 4,569 tonnes per day, was measured on September 21, 2023.
Satellite monitoring also detected a large cloud of SO2 extending west of Taal Lake. This prolonged period of VOG has been affecting the Taal Region since early September, with an average SO2 degassing rate of 3,402 tonnes per day for the month.
VOG consists of fine droplets containing volcanic gases such as acidic SO2, which can irritate the eyes, throat, and respiratory tract, with the severity of effects depending on gas concentrations and exposure duration.
Particularly vulnerable individuals, including those with asthma, lung disease, heart disease, the elderly, pregnant women, and children, are advised to take precautionary measures.
Precautions for Communities Affected by VOG:
Limit Exposure: Avoid outdoor activities, stay indoors, and keep doors and windows closed to minimize VOG exposure.
Protect Yourself: Use N95 facemasks to cover your nose, stay hydrated to reduce throat irritation, and seek medical assistance if you experience severe symptoms.
Furthermore, during periods of rainfall, acid rain can be generated due to volcanic gas emissions over areas where the VOG plume disperses.
This can potentially damage crops and affect metal roofs on houses and buildings.
DOST-PHIVOLCS reminds the public that Alert Level 1 remains in effect for Taal Volcano, signifying an abnormal condition with ongoing unrest.
This alert level does not indicate a cessation of the threat of eruptive activity. Any significant changes in monitored parameters may prompt an adjustment in the alert level, either upward to Alert Level 2 in the event of increased unrest or downward to Alert Level 0 if parameters return to baseline levels after a suitable observation period.
At Alert Level 1, potential hazards include sudden steam-driven or phreatic explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and dangerous accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas, especially within the Taal Volcano Island (TVI).
Entry into TVI and the Taal Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ), particularly around the Main Crater and Daang Kastila fissure, remains strictly prohibited.
Local government units are urged to assess previously evacuated barangays around Taal Lake for damages and road accessibilities while strengthening preparedness, contingency, and communication measures for renewed unrest.
Additionally, people are advised to be cautious due to ground displacement across fissures, potential ashfall, and minor earthquakes.
Civil aviation authorities have been advised to caution pilots to avoid flying close to the volcano due to the hazards posed by airborne ash and ballistic fragments resulting from sudden explosions and wind-remobilized ash.
DOST-PHIVOLCS is actively monitoring Taal Volcano's activity, and any significant developments will be promptly communicated to all stakeholders. As of the latest update on September 22, 2023, Taal Volcano remains at Alert Level 1, with specific parameters indicating ongoing seismic activity, SO2 emissions, and ground deformation.
Current Parameters (as of September 22, 2023):
Seismicity: 5 volcanic tremors (20 to 575 minutes long)
Acidity at Main Crater Lake: 0.48 (21 February 2023)
Temperature at Main Crater Lake: 74.8 ℃ (12 August 2023)
Sulfur Dioxide Flux: 4,569 tonnes/day (21 September 2023) with pronounced upwelling of hot volcanic fluids in the Main Crater Lake, accompanied by VOG observations
Plume: 2,400 meters tall with voluminous emission, drifting west-southwest and southwest
Ground Deformation: Long-term deflation of the Taal Caldera and short-term inflation of the northern flanks of the Taal Volcano Island.
Air Quality Index (AQI) and PM2.5 Air Pollution in National Capital Region:
Las Pinas: 211 (Very Unhealthy)
Pasig: 186 (Unhealthy)
Caloocan: 166 (Unhealthy)
Makati: 163 (Unhealthy)
Mandaluyong: 158 (Unhealthy)
Quezon City: 158 (Unhealthy)
Taguig: 158 (Unhealthy)
Paranaque: 145 (Unhealthy for sensitive groups)
In a related news, The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has clarified that the persistent smog affecting the residents of Metro Manila is unrelated to Taal Volcano's volcanic smog or vog.
In an interview with PTV's Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon, DOST Secretary and Phivolcs Officer-in-Charge Renato Solidum emphasized that the source of the smog in Metro Manila is pollution, primarily stemming from vehicles and industrial activities.
Secretary Solidum highlighted the distinction between the smog in Metro Manila and the volcanic emissions from Taal Volcano, stating, "We should remember that what is happening in Metro Manila is different from Taal Volcano. The entire Metro Manila and its neighboring provinces are experiencing what PAGASA refers to as thermal invasion."
"Thermal invasion is prevalent," Solidum continued, "but in Metro Manila, the source of the smoke is pollution originating from vehicles."
He further urged the public to take precautions against the health effects of smog and vog. Solidum recommended wearing face masks as a protective measure and advised, "Smog has health effects, so it's a good practice to wear face masks. If it's not necessary to go outside, it's advisable to keep doors and windows closed."
The clarification from the DOST comes as Metro Manila residents have been grappling with deteriorating air quality, prompting concerns about its impact on public health.
Since 12:30 PM on the same day, the Taal Volcano Network has reported the presence of volcanic smog over Taal Lake, which has lingered over the region.
Continuous upwelling at the Taal Main Crater Lake has resulted in the generation of steam plumes that reached heights of up to 2,400 meters before drifting west-northwest.
Additionally, a substantial release of volcanic sulfur dioxide (SO2) gas, totaling 4,569 tonnes per day, was measured on September 21, 2023.
Satellite monitoring also detected a large cloud of SO2 extending west of Taal Lake. This prolonged period of VOG has been affecting the Taal Region since early September, with an average SO2 degassing rate of 3,402 tonnes per day for the month.
VOG consists of fine droplets containing volcanic gases such as acidic SO2, which can irritate the eyes, throat, and respiratory tract, with the severity of effects depending on gas concentrations and exposure duration.
Particularly vulnerable individuals, including those with asthma, lung disease, heart disease, the elderly, pregnant women, and children, are advised to take precautionary measures.
Precautions for Communities Affected by VOG:
1. Limit Exposure: Avoid outdoor activities, stay indoors, and keep doors and windows closed to minimize VOG exposure.
2. Protect Yourself: Use N95 facemasks to cover your nose, stay hydrated to reduce throat irritation, and seek medical assistance if you experience severe symptoms.
Furthermore, during periods of rainfall, acid rain can be generated due to volcanic gas emissions over areas where the VOG plume disperses.
This can potentially damage crops and affect metal roofs on houses and buildings.
DOST-PHIVOLCS reminds the public that Alert Level 1 remains in effect for Taal Volcano, signifying an abnormal condition with ongoing unrest.
This alert level does not indicate a cessation of the threat of eruptive activity. Any significant changes in monitored parameters may prompt an adjustment in the alert level, either upward to Alert Level 2 in the event of increased unrest or downward to Alert Level 0 if parameters return to baseline levels after a suitable observation period.
At Alert Level 1, potential hazards include sudden steam-driven or phreatic explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and dangerous accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas, especially within the Taal Volcano Island (TVI).
Entry into TVI and the Taal Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ), particularly around the Main Crater and Daang Kastila fissure, remains strictly prohibited.
Local government units are urged to assess previously evacuated barangays around Taal Lake for damages and road accessibilities while strengthening preparedness, contingency, and communication measures for renewed unrest.
Additionally, people are advised to be cautious due to ground displacement across fissures, potential ashfall, and minor earthquakes.
Civil aviation authorities have been advised to caution pilots to avoid flying close to the volcano due to the hazards posed by airborne ash and ballistic fragments resulting from sudden explosions and wind-remobilized ash.
DOST-PHIVOLCS is actively monitoring Taal Volcano's activity, and any significant developments will be promptly communicated to all stakeholders. As of the latest update on September 22, 2023, Taal Volcano remains at Alert Level 1, with specific parameters indicating ongoing seismic activity, SO2 emissions, and ground deformation.
Current Parameters (as of September 22, 2023):
• Seismicity: 5 volcanic tremors (20 to 575 minutes long)
• Acidity at Main Crater Lake: 0.48 (21 February 2023)
• Temperature at Main Crater Lake: 74.8 ℃ (12 August 2023)
• Sulfur Dioxide Flux: 4,569 tonnes/day (21 September 2023) with pronounced upwelling of hot volcanic fluids in the Main Crater Lake, accompanied by VOG observations
• Plume: 2,400 meters tall with voluminous emission, drifting west-southwest and southwest
• Ground Deformation: Long-term deflation of the Taal Caldera and short-term inflation of the northern flanks of the Taal Volcano Island
Air Quality Index (AQI) and PM2.5 Air Pollution in National Capital Region:
• Las Pinas: 211 (Very Unhealthy)
• Pasig: 186 (Unhealthy)
• Caloocan: 166 (Unhealthy)
• Makati: 163 (Unhealthy)
• Mandaluyong: 158 (Unhealthy)
• Quezon City: 158 (Unhealthy)
• Taguig: 158 (Unhealthy)
• Paranaque: 145 (Unhealthy for sensitive groups)
In a related news, The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has clarified that the persistent smog affecting the residents of Metro Manila is unrelated to Taal Volcano's volcanic smog or vog.
In an interview with PTV's Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon, DOST Secretary and Phivolcs Officer-in-Charge Renato Solidum emphasized that the source of the smog in Metro Manila is pollution, primarily stemming from vehicles and industrial activities.
Secretary Solidum highlighted the distinction between the smog in Metro Manila and the volcanic emissions from Taal Volcano, stating, "We should remember that what is happening in Metro Manila is different from Taal Volcano. The entire Metro Manila and its neighboring provinces are experiencing what PAGASA refers to as thermal invasion."
"Thermal invasion is prevalent," Solidum continued, "but in Metro Manila, the source of the smoke is pollution originating from vehicles."
He further urged the public to take precautions against the health effects of smog and vog. Solidum recommended wearing face masks as a protective measure and advised, "Smog has health effects, so it's a good practice to wear face masks. If it's not necessary to go outside, it's advisable to keep doors and windows closed."
The clarification from the DOST comes as Metro Manila residents have been grappling with deteriorating air quality, prompting concerns about its impact on public health.
In a recent update from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS), the Taal Volcano continues to exhibit signs of unrest, with volcanic smog, or VOG, persisting in the area. As of 5:30 PM on September 21, 2023, several key observations have been made regarding Taal Volcano's activity.
Since 12:30 PM on the same day, the Taal Volcano Network has reported the presence of volcanic smog over Taal Lake, which has lingered over the region.
Continuous upwelling at the Taal Main Crater Lake has resulted in the generation of steam plumes that reached heights of up to 2,400 meters before drifting west-northwest.
Additionally, a substantial release of volcanic sulfur dioxide (SO2) gas, totaling 4,569 tonnes per day, was measured on September 21, 2023.
Satellite monitoring also detected a large cloud of SO2 extending west of Taal Lake. This prolonged period of VOG has been affecting the Taal Region since early September, with an average SO2 degassing rate of 3,402 tonnes per day for the month.
VOG consists of fine droplets containing volcanic gases such as acidic SO2, which can irritate the eyes, throat, and respiratory tract, with the severity of effects depending on gas concentrations and exposure duration.
Particularly vulnerable individuals, including those with asthma, lung disease, heart disease, the elderly, pregnant women, and children, are advised to take precautionary measures.
Precautions for Communities Affected by VOG:
Limit Exposure: Avoid outdoor activities, stay indoors, and keep doors and windows closed to minimize VOG exposure.
Protect Yourself: Use N95 facemasks to cover your nose, stay hydrated to reduce throat irritation, and seek medical assistance if you experience severe symptoms.
Furthermore, during periods of rainfall, acid rain can be generated due to volcanic gas emissions over areas where the VOG plume disperses.
This can potentially damage crops and affect metal roofs on houses and buildings.
DOST-PHIVOLCS reminds the public that Alert Level 1 remains in effect for Taal Volcano, signifying an abnormal condition with ongoing unrest.
This alert level does not indicate a cessation of the threat of eruptive activity. Any significant changes in monitored parameters may prompt an adjustment in the alert level, either upward to Alert Level 2 in the event of increased unrest or downward to Alert Level 0 if parameters return to baseline levels after a suitable observation period.
At Alert Level 1, potential hazards include sudden steam-driven or phreatic explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and dangerous accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas, especially within the Taal Volcano Island (TVI).
Entry into TVI and the Taal Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ), particularly around the Main Crater and Daang Kastila fissure, remains strictly prohibited.
Local government units are urged to assess previously evacuated barangays around Taal Lake for damages and road accessibilities while strengthening preparedness, contingency, and communication measures for renewed unrest.
Additionally, people are advised to be cautious due to ground displacement across fissures, potential ashfall, and minor earthquakes.
Civil aviation authorities have been advised to caution pilots to avoid flying close to the volcano due to the hazards posed by airborne ash and ballistic fragments resulting from sudden explosions and wind-remobilized ash.
DOST-PHIVOLCS is actively monitoring Taal Volcano's activity, and any significant developments will be promptly communicated to all stakeholders. As of the latest update on September 22, 2023, Taal Volcano remains at Alert Level 1, with specific parameters indicating ongoing seismic activity, SO2 emissions, and ground deformation.
Current Parameters (as of September 22, 2023):
Seismicity: 5 volcanic tremors (20 to 575 minutes long)
Acidity at Main Crater Lake: 0.48 (21 February 2023)
Temperature at Main Crater Lake: 74.8 ℃ (12 August 2023)
Sulfur Dioxide Flux: 4,569 tonnes/day (21 September 2023) with pronounced upwelling of hot volcanic fluids in the Main Crater Lake, accompanied by VOG observations
Plume: 2,400 meters tall with voluminous emission, drifting west-southwest and southwest
Ground Deformation: Long-term deflation of the Taal Caldera and short-term inflation of the northern flanks of the Taal Volcano Island.
Air Quality Index (AQI) and PM2.5 Air Pollution in National Capital Region:
Las Pinas: 211 (Very Unhealthy)
Pasig: 186 (Unhealthy)
Caloocan: 166 (Unhealthy)
Makati: 163 (Unhealthy)
Mandaluyong: 158 (Unhealthy)
Quezon City: 158 (Unhealthy)
Taguig: 158 (Unhealthy)
Paranaque: 145 (Unhealthy for sensitive groups)
In a related news, The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has clarified that the persistent smog affecting the residents of Metro Manila is unrelated to Taal Volcano's volcanic smog or vog.
In an interview with PTV's Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon, DOST Secretary and Phivolcs Officer-in-Charge Renato Solidum emphasized that the source of the smog in Metro Manila is pollution, primarily stemming from vehicles and industrial activities.
Secretary Solidum highlighted the distinction between the smog in Metro Manila and the volcanic emissions from Taal Volcano, stating, "We should remember that what is happening in Metro Manila is different from Taal Volcano. The entire Metro Manila and its neighboring provinces are experiencing what PAGASA refers to as thermal invasion."
"Thermal invasion is prevalent," Solidum continued, "but in Metro Manila, the source of the smoke is pollution originating from vehicles."
He further urged the public to take precautions against the health effects of smog and vog. Solidum recommended wearing face masks as a protective measure and advised, "Smog has health effects, so it's a good practice to wear face masks. If it's not necessary to go outside, it's advisable to keep doors and windows closed."
The clarification from the DOST comes as Metro Manila residents have been grappling with deteriorating air quality, prompting concerns about its impact on public health.
Sep 22, 2023
