Taal Volcano Alert Level 2

Trekking Taal Volcano? Hold on!

Philippine Volcanologists has raised Alert Level 2 in Taal Volcano province of Batangas last April 8, 2011.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Philvocs) has monitored an increase in seismic action in Taal Volcano.

Volcanic earthquakes detected continued to rise. According to Phivolcs at least 21 volcanic quakes were detected by the seismic network, ranging from intensities two to three. One of them was accompanied by rumbling sounds.

At the Main Crater Lake, a built up of carbon dioxide emissions tripled based on Philvocs records. Water temperature also increased from 30.5 to 31.5 degrees Celsius.

In the northern and northeast part of the Main Crater, hot gases or steam are visible. There are times that steaming activities are accompanied by a whistling sound.

Based on Philvocs chart, Alert Level 2 means a low to moderate level of seismicity, persistence of local but unfelt earthquakes. Ground deformation measurements above baseline levels. Increased water and ground probe hole temperatures and increased bubbling at the Crater Lake. And a probable magnetic intrusion that could lead to an eruption.

With the following conditions of Taal Volcano, the general public is advised to stay away from the Main Crater. It is dangerous due to hazardous steam-driven explosion that may occur, with a build-up of toxic gases. Philvocs advises the general public that the whole Volcano Island is a Permanent Danger Zone.

So if you have plans in trekking the volcano, maybe this is not the right time. It would be better to have your plans shelved and have your adventure when the level gets down.

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