The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) reported a minor phreatic eruption at Taal Volcano in Batangas early Wednesday morning.
According to PHIVOLCS, the eruption occurred at 1:59 AM on September 25, 2024, and was captured by the thermal camera at the Daang Kastila Observation Station. The eruption, locally known as “pusngat,” produced a 600-meter-high plume that drifted southwest.
In its bulletin, PHIVOLCS noted that Taal emitted 4,899 tons of sulfur dioxide on Monday, along with an upwelling of hot volcanic fluids observed in the Main Crater Lake. Plumes as high as 1,800 meters were also seen drifting towards the south-southwest and southwest.
The agency stated that while Alert Level 1 is still in effect, indicating an abnormal condition, this should not be taken as a sign that the volcano’s unrest has ceased. Potential hazards under Alert Level 1 include sudden phreatic explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and dangerous accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas. These could pose risks to areas within the volcano island.
PHIVOLCS warned against entering the Taal Volcano Island and the permanent danger zone (PDZ), particularly near the Main Crater and the Daang Kastila fissure. It also advised local governments to assess the preparedness of their communities and implement appropriate response measures to mitigate these hazards.
Additionally, PHIVOLCS alerted civil aviation authorities to advise pilots to avoid flying close to the volcano, as airborne ash and ballistic fragments from sudden explosions could endanger aircraft.