Everyone is notified of the increase in alert of Taal Volcano from Alert Level 2 (increase in activity) to Alert Level 3 (magmatic unrest).
As of 7:22 a.m., there was a brief phreatomagmatic burst at Taal Volcano Main Crater followed by an almost continuous phreatomagmatic eruption that created a one thousand five hundred (1500) meter high plume with includes volcanic earthquake and infrasound signals.
Currently, DOST-PHIVOLCS raises the alert status of Taal Volcano from Alert Level 2 (increased activity) to Alert Level 3 (magmatic unrest). In this situation, the magma biting the bottom of the Main Crater could cause an additional or strong eruption.
DOST-PHIVOLCS strongly urges everyone to evacuate from Taal Volcano Island or TVI and high-risk barangays of Bilibinwang and Banyaga, Agoncillo and Boso-boso, Gulod and the eastern part of Bugaan East, Laurel, Batangas due to the danger of pyroclastic density currents and volcanic tsunamis in case there is a strong eruption.
Everyone is strongly reminded that the entire TVI is a Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) and entry into it and the high-risk barangays of Agoncillo and Laurel should be prohibited. All activities on Taal Lake should be banned for now.
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Alert Level 3 raised over Taal Volcano
Residents around Taal Lake are encouraged to be vigilant and careful due to possible ashfall and vog and be always prepared for possible evacuation in case Taal activity deteriorates. Civil aviation officials should urge pilots to avoid flying near the volcano because of flying ash, rock, and pyroclastic density currents such as base surge that could affect the aircraft caused by a possible sudden volcanic eruption.
DOST-PHIVOLCS closely monitors the condition of Taal Volcano 24/7 and is ready to immediately notify any changes to all concerned.
Taal Volcano is a large caldera filled by Taal Lake in the Philippines. The caldera was formed by prehistoric eruptions between 140,000 and 5,380 BP.
Taal Volcano has had several violent eruptions in the past, causing deaths on the island and the populated areas surrounding the lake, with an overall death toll of about 6,000.
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