Taal Volcano Might Spew Lava, Ash For Weeks, Says Authorities
TAAL VOLCANO – Authorities warned on Tuesday (January 14) that Taal Volcano could possibly spew ash and lava for weeks.
The crater of Taal exploded on Sunday with clouds of ash and jets of lave, which prompted those living near the mountain to rush to safety.
According to ABS-CBN, many individuals abandoned their livestock and pets, as well as homes filled with their belongings after authorities sounded an alert warning that an explosive eruption could approach imminently.
These are what some of them have to say prior to the calamity:
“We left everything apart from what we’re wearing,”
“We were terrified.”
Robert Cadiz, a 47-year-old fisherman who took refuge in shelters
“I am hoping this won’t go on too long because I will lose my job if I can’t report to work immediately,”
Gerald Aseoche, aged 30, who evacuated along with his four young children
Taal is the second most active volcanoes in the Philippines that hits periodically by eruptions and earthquakes due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire.
Richard Gordon, Philippine Red Cross Chairman, warned that the group is preparing for the worst and warned people to stay away from the volcano.
“Bring your animals and livestock to evacuation centers if you must,”
The volcano’s eruption have been putting on a terrifying display and shot dark-grey columns 800 meters (half a mile) in the sky.
Based on the report, Renato Solidum, head of the Philippines’ seismological agency, stated that its previous eruptions lasted for months, hence, it’s difficult to determine when will the volcanic activity end.
He, however said that the explosive eruption may remain for weeks, depending on developments.
“We have a protocol of waiting for several days, sometimes two weeks, to make sure that indeed… volcano activity has essentially stopped,”
Taal shoot massive plumes of ash 15 kilometers (or 9 miles) into the sky, then eventually rained down on the region.
Ashfall prompted aviation officials to shut down the capital’s main international airport, which cancelled hundreds of flights and stranding tens of thousands of travelers.
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