As of 8:00 a.m. of January 15, 2020, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) issued a Taal Volcano Bulletin.
According to DOST-PHIVOLCS, the activity of the Taal Volcano has been characterized by “continuous but generally weaker eruption” of its main crater due to its magmatic and hydrovolcanic processes. The ongoing eruption produced dark gray steam-laden plumes that reached approximately 1,000 meters high that distributed ash to the southwest of its main crater.
DOST-PHIVOLCS stated that the new cracks or fissures were observed in these places: Sinisian, Mahabang Dahilig, Dayapan, Palanas, Sangalang, Poblacion, Mataas na Bayan, Lemery; Pansipit, Bilibinwang, Agoncillo; Poblacion 1, Poblacion 2, Poblacion 3, Poblacion 5, Talisay and Poblacion, San Nicolas. In addition, the fissure divided the road that connects Agoncillo to Laurel, Batangas.
Based on the reports from the Philippine Seismic Network, they have recorded a total of 466 volcanic earthquakes in Taal region since 1:00 p.m. of January 12. One hundred fifty-six (156) of these volcanic earthquakes were felt with intensities ranging from Intensity I to Intensity V.
Since 5:00 AM on January 14, 2020 until 5:00 AM on January 15, 2020, the Philippine Seismic Network recorded 159 volcanic earthquakes and 28 of these were felt with intensities ranging from Intensity I – III. The intense seismic activity may signify continuous magmatic intrusion beneath the Taal edifice, in which this may lead to further eruptive activity.
Furthermore, the emission of sulfur dioxide was measured at an average of 1,686 tonnes per day on January 14, 2020.
The alert Level 4 still continued in effect over Taal Volcano, which means, according to DOST-PHIVOLCS, the hazardous explosive eruption will happen within hours to days. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology strongly restated the total evacuation of Taal volcano island as well as areas at high risk to pyroclastic density currents and volcanic tsunami within a 14-km radius from its main crater and along the Pansipit River Valley where fissuring has been observed.
The DOST-PHIVOLCS will continually monitor the eruption.
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