Phivolcs warns of volcanic smog in Taal

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) has warned of volcanic smog amid an elevated degassing activity at Taal volcano.

State volcanologists said that Taal’s volcanic sulfur dioxide or SO2 gas emissions reached 11,745 tons per day yesterday. The degassing generated plumes that rose 2,400 meters above the main crater.

Phivolcs said Taal has been continuously degassing concentrations of SO2 since 2021 and has averaged 7,777 tons per day since the start of the year. The possible weakening of the wind in the coming days may lead to the accumulation of SO2 or volcanic smog.

It warned that prolonged exposure to volcanic SO2 could cause irritation of the eyes, throat and respiratory tract. It also advised residents to limit exposure outdoors and wear protection through N95 facemasks.

Vulnerable sectors, including people with health conditions such as asthma, lung disease and heart disease, the elderly, pregnant women and children should seek help from doctors as needed.

The agency said that Alert Level 1 remains over Taal volcano and that it is still in abnormal condition and that the threat of eruptive activity has not ceased.