Volcanic smoke detected in Taal, health advisory issued
MANILA, Philippines (Update 9:47 a.m.) – The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) issued a warning Friday as the agency monitors the presence of volcanic fog or vog at Taal Volcano in Batangas, sparking concerns about potential health risks and environmental damage.
Over the past 24 hours, at 5 a.m.
Friday, Phivolcs observed the presence of vog and recorded five volcanic tremors, lasting from 20 to 575 minutes, indicating increased activity in Taal.
State volcanologists tracked a surge of hot volcanic fluid into the main crater lake, sending plumes of steam rising up to 2,400 meters, drifting in a west-southwest and southwest direction.
Volcanic sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions from the main Taal crater totaled 4,569 tons per day, while a large SO2 cloud was also detected west of Taal Lake on Thursday.
“Vog has been affecting the Taal region since the first week of September 2023, when an average of 3,402 tons of SO2 per day was emitted from the Taal volcano during the month,” Phivolcs said.
Vog, which consists of tiny droplets filled with volcanic gases, including sulfur dioxide, can be especially dangerous to human health.
It is known to cause irritation to the eyes, throat and respiratory tract.
State volcanologists have also observed long-term deflation of Taal Crater, indicating a decrease in pressure within the volcanic system.
There has been short-term inflation on the northern flank of Taal Volcanic Island, indicating localized pressure buildup.
Phivolcs advises people with asthma, lung disease, heart disease, the elderly, pregnant women, and children to follow these precautions:
Reduce time spent outdoors and close doors and windows to prevent pollution from entering.
Wear an N95 mask to cover your nose and mouth and drink water to soothe an itchy throat.
See a doctor if symptoms are severe.
State volcanologists also warn of the risk of acid rain when emissions combine with rain, which can damage crops and corrode metal roofs.
Phivolcs keeps Taal Volcano at Alert Level 1, indicating ongoing unrest and no eruptionis imminent.
Local government units in Batangas and surrounding areas responded to the situation by suspending classes on Friday as a precautionary measure.
VOLCANIC SMOG ALERT!
Taal volcano advisory 21 september 2023
Phillippine institute of volcanology and seismology(PHIVOLCS-DOST)
WHAT IS A VOLCANIC SMOG?
Vog (volcanic fog) is a visible cloud of gases and aerosols of small particles and acid droplets produced when sulfur dioxide (SO2) and other gases are released by volcanoes Chemical interaction with sunlight and oxygen, moisture and dust in the atmosphere. Volcanic emissions can pose environmental and health risks to neighboring communities.
FOR COMMUNITIES THAT CAN BE AFFECTED BY VOG,PLEASE BE MINDFUL OF THE FOLLOWING:
1 LIMIT YOUR EXPOSURE
- Avoid outdoor activities,stay indoors and shut doors and windows to block out vlog.
2 PROTECT YOURSELF.
- Cover your nose Ideally with an N95 facemask.
- Drink plenty of water to reduce any throath irritation or construction.
- Seek help from a doctor if needed,especiallyif serious effects are experienced.
