Phreatic eruption recorded at Taal Volcano

MANILA, Philippines — A minor phreatic eruption was recorded at Taal volcano yesterday morning, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported.

The eruption produced a 1,500-meter white plume that drifted southwest and was recorded by cameras at Phivolcs’ Cuenca and Buco stations. 

Alert Level 1 or low-level unrest prevails over Taal volcano, the agency said.

Phivolcs also recorded one volcanic earthquake since Wednesday, noting that sulfur dioxide emissions stood at 6,307 tons per day.

The agency said entry into the permanent danger zone as well as occupancy and boating around Taal Lake should be prohibited to avoid potential hazards, which may include steam-driven, phreatic or gas-driven explosions, earthquakes, ashfall and lethal accumulation of volcanic gas.