Taal Volcano Bulletin - April 11, 2011

Courtesy of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, here's the Institute's most recent bulletin (dated April 1, 2011) of the Taal Volcano which provides information of the current activity of the volcano:

Taal Volcano’s (14.0000°N, 120.9833°E) seismic network recorded seven (7) volcanic earthquakes during the past 24 hours. Water temperature slightly increased from 30.0°C to 30.5°C. Gas measurements conducted at Taal Main Crater Lake last January, February and March 2011 yielded carbon dioxide (CO2) emission values of 2,250 tonnes per day (t/d), 1,875 t/d and 4,670 t/d respectively. The remarkable increase in C02 concentration indicates anomalous gas release from the magma at depth. Result of the ground deformation survey (precise leveling) conducted around the Volcano Island last 05-11 April 2011 showed that volcano edifice is slightly inflated as compared with the 02-09 February 2011 survey.

Alert Level 2 is hoisted over Taal Volcano with the interpretation that magma has been intruding towards the surface, as manifested by CO2 being released in the Main Crater Lake and increase in seismic activity. Hence, PHIVOLCS advises the public that the Main Crater, Daang Kastila Trail and Mt. Tabaro (1965 -1977 Eruption Site) are strictly off-limits because sudden hazardous steam-driven explosions may occur and high concentrations of toxic gases may accumulate. Breathing air with high concentration of gases can be lethal to human, animals and even cause damage to vegetation. In addition, it is reminded that entire Volcano Island is a Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ), and permanent settlement in the island is strictly not recommended. DOST-PHIVOLCS is closely monitoring Taal Volcano’s activity and any new significant development will be immediately relayed to all concerned.

Taal Volcano is located in Batangas and is one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines. During its past eruptions, it has killed more than 5,000 people to date. There has been a total of 33 recorded eruptions at Taal since 1572.

6.1-magnitude earthquake hits Northern Philippines on March 20

According to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), a 6.1-magnitude quake struck the northern Philippine provinces including the capital city, Manila on March 20, 2011 at 4:26PM.

The Institute located the epicenter of the 39-KM deep tectonic quake at 122 kilometers northeast of Laoag City.

Quake's epicenter located in northeast of Laog City | Photo courtesy of Philvolcs

Philvolcs also reported that the quake was felt at Intensity 5 in Pasuquin and Pagudpud Ilocos Norte; Intensity 4 in Calayan Island and Paoay, Ilocos Norte; Intensity 3 in Basco, Batanes; Sinait, Ilocos Norte and the towns of Gonzaga and Calamaniogan in Cagayan, and Manila City; and Intensity 2 in Baguio City.

Aftershocks are also expected according to the institute's bulletin of the said seismic activity.

There has been no damages reported.