Taal volcano's main crater has erupted, spewing ash as far as a kilometer high in the afternoon of January 12, Sunday, forcing residents in nearby areas to evacuate.
The Philipine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) has classified it as a phreatic eruption, which, according to an Inquirer.net report, "is basically driven by the steam that triggers a steam emission to reach the surface, said PHIVOLCS science research specialist Allan Loza."
As of writing, the Taal is already at Alert Level 3 (magmatic unrest). In a released bulletin, PHIVOLCS notes:
“This means that there is magmatic intrusion that is likely driving the current activity. PHIVOLCS strongly recommends Taal Volcano Island and high-risk barangays of Agoncillo and Laurel, Batangas be evacuated due to the possible hazards of pyroclastic density currents and volcanic tsunami. The public is reminded that the entire Volcano Island is a Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ), and entry into the island as well as high-risk barangays of Agoncillo and Laurel is prohibited.”
Ashfall has been experienced in the soutwest sector of Taal, and according to a CNN report, in Tagaytay City, Laguna, Cavite, and Mutninlupa City.
Read more:
- No Volcanic Tsunami as of Now, Taal Alert Level 4 Remains, Says PHIVOLCS Director
- Ladies, You Have the Right to Refuse to Work in Times of Emergency
- This Couple Got Married in Tagaytay Amid Taal Volcano Eruption
- Do This Before Cleaning up Ashfall From Your Garden
- Where to Volunteer, Send Donations for Those Affected by Taal's Eruption
- Coffee Farms Most Affected by Taal Eruption, Says Report
