The Kanlaon Volcano in Negros Island and Taal Volcano in Batangas emitted steam but remained under Alert Level 1, Tuesday, August 18.
According to Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), Kanlaon Volcano’s monitoring network recorded four (4) volcanic earthquakes during the 24-hour observation period. Moderate emission of white steam-laden plumes that rose 500 meters before drifting northwest and northeast was observed.
“Sulfur dioxide (SO2) emission was measured at an average of 1012 tonnes/day on 02 August 2020. Ground deformation data from continuous GPS measurements indicate slight inflation of the lower and mid slopes since May 2020, while short-term electronic tilt monitoring on the southeastern flanks recorded inflation on the lower to mid slopes that began on June 21, 2020. These parameters may indicate hydrothermal or magmatic processes occurring beneath the edifice,” it added.
DOST-PHIVOLCS would like to remind the public that Kanlaon Volcano is at Alert Level 1, which means that it is at an abnormal condition and has entered a period of unrest.
Phivolcs reminded the public and concerned local government units (LGUs) to strictly observe the prohibition of entry into the 4-kilometer radius Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) “due to the further possibilities of sudden and hazardous steam-driven or phreatic eruptions.”
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Kanlaon, Taal volcano emit steam, remain under Alert Level 1
Meanwhile, Phivolcs reported in the past 24-hour period, the Taal Volcano Network recorded five (5) volcanic earthquakes. Weak steaming or fumarolic activity rising 20 meters high before drifting south-southwest was observed from vents on the Main Crater.
Alert Level 1 (Abnormal) is maintained over Taal Volcano. DOST-PHIVOLCS reminds the public that at Alert Level 1, sudden steam-driven or phreatic explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas can occur and threaten areas within the Taal Volcano Island (TVI).
DOST-PHIVOLCS strongly recommends that entry into TVI, Taal’s Permanent Danger Zone, or PDZ, especially the vicinities of the Main Crater and the Daang Kastila fissure, must remain strictly prohibited.
Local government units are advised to continuously assess previously evacuated barangays around Taal Lake for damages and road accessibilities and to strengthen preparedness, contingency, and communication measures in case of renewed unrest. People are also advised to observe precautions due to ground displacement across fissures, possible ashfall, and minor earthquakes.