Taal Volcano (Grabbed from Phivolcs' Facebook page)
MANILA – Volcanic smog or “vog” has been observed over the Taal Caldera on Tuesday afternoon, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported.
Phivolcs said the vog is affecting the municipalities of Agoncillo, Laurel, Balete, Sta. Teresita, Calaca, Mabini, Mataasnakahoy, Lemery, San Nicolas, and Talisay, all in Batangas province.
Taal Volcano, which emitted 6,837 tons of sulfur dioxide on Monday, is under alert level 1 (low-level unrest).
Only one volcanic tremor that lasted 2 minutes was recorded on Tuesday.
Despite this, Phivolcs Director Teresito Bacolcol said the public should take precautions against vog.
"Wear masks. Drink plenty of water, and minimize outdoor activities," he said in an interview.
Vog consists of fine droplets containing volcanic gas, which can cause irritations to the eyes, throat, and respiratory tract in severities depending on gas concentrations and durations of exposure.
Meanwhile, under alert level 1, entry into the Taal Volcano Island is prohibited as sudden steam-driven or phreatic eruptions, volcanic earthquakes, and lethal expulsions of gas could occur and threaten the area. (PNA)
