Philippines: Officials raise alert level for Taal Volcano in Batangas Province due to ongoing activity as of March 9 /update 1

Event

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) raised the alert level for Taal Volcano in Batangas Province to Level 2 of a five-tier scale March 9, indicating increasing unrest. PHIVOLCS officials said 886 volcanic episodes and 141 low-frequency volcanic earthquakes have occurred since Feb. 13. Officials have not ordered evacuations in nearby towns; however, authorities classify Taal Volcano Island as a permanent danger zone, and travel to the island remains prohibited.

Authorities could order evacuations and impose ground travel restrictions along roads in nearby areas if significant eruptions occur and produce ashfall. Ash could reduce visibility and make streets slippery, and localized ground traffic disruptions are possible. Flight disruptions could occur at nearby airports in central Luzon, including Metro Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL), if a major eruption occurs.

Health
Volcanic activity may impact air quality in the areas surrounding Taal Volcano. Air quality could become a concern, particularly in areas near the crater, following an explosive event. Individuals in the region - especially those with underlying pulmonary conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or lung cancers - may experience difficulty breathing and could suffer from lower tolerance to physical exertion.

The volcano is around 29 km (18 miles) north-northwest of Batangas City.

Advice

In the event of eruptions, contact airlines for updated flight information; confirm flights before checking out of hotels or driving to the airport. Avoid areas with heavy ash accumulations. If operating in areas affected by the ash cloud, consider remaining indoors in air-conditioned facilities when possible. Those who must be outdoors should use protective face coverings and observe other precautions to avoid ash inhalation. Drive defensively; seek updated information on road conditions before driving or routing shipments through areas close to the volcano. Follow official instructions.

Resources

Phillippine Institue of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs)