After the sudden phreatic eruption of the Taal Volcano earlier today, Jan. 12, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) has raised the warning to Alert Level 3.
What does this mean? Here’s a rundown of what happened in the last few hours.
As early as 5 a.m., Phivolcs reported a series of magnitude 2 earthquakes in Batangas. Then at 1 p.m., citizens living in Talisay said they heard “booming sounds” from the volcano island. Phivolcs reported that the Taal Volcano had a phreatic eruption, which occurs when magma heats surface water and triggers a steam emission.
Netizens and news outlets have shared photos of thick clouds seen from Laguna and Cavite. Some areas are also experiencing rain and ash fall due to the eruption.
As of 4 p.m., Phivolcs released a notice raising the alert status of Taal from Level 2 (increasing unrest) to Level 3 (magmatic unrest). “This means that there is magmatic intrusion that is likely driving the current activity,” the notice reads. “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.”
As of 7 p.m., we’ve heard reports of ash fall in Makati City, Quezon City, and Rizal. The Department of Health (DOH) has also released an advisory on what to do when there’s volcanic ash in your area. “Anyone who already suffers from health problems such as bronchitis, emphysema, or asthma should avoid exposure to volcanic ash,” DOH said, noting that you wear a face mask outdoors and keep doors and windows closed.
Exposure to volcanic ash can cause bronchitis, nose and throat irritation, eye irritation, and minor skin problems
If you or someone you know is living near the Taal Volcano’s vicinity, it’s best that you watch out for evacuation notices from your local government. For more updates on the Taal Volcano’s eruption, follow Phivolcs’ Twitter account.
Stay safe and alert, everyone!
Photo courtesy of Inquirer.net
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