Philippines: Officials maintaining alert level for Taal Volcano in Batangas Province as of April 16 amid elevated activity /update 3

Event

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) is maintaining the alert level for Taal Volcano in Batangas Province at Level 2 of a five-tier scale as of April 16. Officials have, in recent weeks, warned of "elevated" seismic activity at the volcano, located approximately 29 km (18 miles) north-northwest of Batangas City, and an increased possibility of a magmatic eruption. PHIVOLCS officials report that over 2,000 volcanic episodes and hundreds of low-frequency volcanic earthquakes have occurred since Feb. 13. Authorities have not ordered evacuations of nearby towns; however, they did classify Taal Volcano Island as a permanent danger zone, and travel to the island remains prohibited.

Officials 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, possibly triggering localized ground traffic disruptions. 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 areas surrounding Taal Volcano. Air quality could become a concern, particularly 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 for physical exertion.

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)