Phivolcs Says Lowers Taal Volcano Status to Alert Level 2 Following Decreased Unrest
The state volcanology bureau lowered Taal Volcano status from alert level 3 to alert level 2 following decreased unrest.
On Saturday (July 24, 2021), the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) announced that Taal Volcano has been lowered to alert level 2 status last Friday (July 23). The sign of unrest continue to decrease over the past few days.
However, the agency explained that the volcano’s status may be raised back to Alert Level 3 if it shows potential eruption and increased signs of unrest. The bureau also reminded the public that lowering the alert status means that the threat of an eruption has disappeared.
Alert level 2 indicates sudden steam-driven or phreatic explosions, volcanic earthquakes, ashfall and expulsions of volcanic gas, which is harmful for the residents living near the volcano. The residents in high risk areas are advised to prepare for a quick and organized evacuation.
The entry into the Taal Volcano Island, which is considered as a permanent danger zone remains strictly prohibited. Pilots are also advised to avoid flying near the main crater due to sudden explosions.
“At such time, people residing within areas at high risk to base surges who have returned after the step-down to Alert Level 2 must therefore be prepared for a quick and organized evacuation,” Phivolcs said.
Taal reportedly generates three low-frequency volcanic earthquakes and low-level background tremor since July 7.
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