TAAL VOLCANO SPEWS 11,499 TONS OF SULFUR DIOXIDE, HIGHEST IN 2023

THE Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said Taal Volcano in Batangas emitted another record-high volume of sulfuric gas on Thursday, November 9.

In an advisory on Thursday afternoon, Phivolcs said 11,499 tons of sulfur dioxide (S02) from the Taal Main Crater was recorded on the same day.

This is so far Taal’s highest S02 emission this year, said Phivolcs, as it warned of possible volcanic smog or vog.

“PAGASA’s (Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration’s) projection suggests that the wind will weaken from later today to tomorrow. This could potentially hinder the dispersion of sulfur dioxide,” Phivolcs Director Teresito Bacolcol on Thursday said.

He added that there is a high likelihood of vog formation “when sulfur dioxide is not dispersed effectively.”

Vog consists of fine droplets containing volcanic gas, which is acidic and can cause irritation of the eyes, throat, and respiratory tract in severities, depending on the gas concentrations and durations of the exposure.

Phivolcs reminded the public to protect themselves from vog by limiting their exposure and avoiding outdoor activities.

People were also advised to cover their nose, ideally with an N95 mask, and to drink lots of water.

Taal Volcano remains under alert Level 1 (abnormal).