18 Feb 2020 | 05:22 AM UTC
Philippines: Authorities downgrade alert status for Taal Volcano as of February 14 /update 8
Alert Level 2 in place for Taal Volcano as of February 14, some residents allowed to return; remain cautious
Event
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) announced at 08:00 (local time) on Friday, February 14, that it has lowered the alert status of the Taal Volcano in Batangas province to Alert Level 2 (second-lowest on a five-tier scale) to reflect a decreasing trend in unrest. However, they warned that this should not be interpreted as a cessation of unrest or that the threat of an eruption has disappeared. A permanent danger zone remains around Taal Volcano Island. Residents in Batangas province, except for those in parts of Agoncillo, Laurel, Balete, Talisay, and San Nicolas are being allowed to return to their homes.
Transportation disruptions are expected to continue in parts of Batangas province while the Alert Level remains at 2.
Context
Since Taal's eruption on January 12, officials at the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) confirm that 584,795 people have been affected across several provinces and almost 6157 individuals remain in evacuation centers as of February 17.
Advice
Individuals present in the affected area are advised to avoid the vicinity of the volcano, monitor the situation, anticipate transportation disruptions, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders).
