Phivolcs notes surge in Taal SO2 emissions, warns of vog

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) has recorded a significant increase in sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions from Taal Volcano, prompting a caution against potential volcanic smog (vog).

The SO2 emission surged from 450 tonnes on August 27 to 4,514 tonnes on August 30, suggesting gas changes or fluid movement beneath the volcano.

Despite the elevated SO2 levels, Phivolcs Director Teresito Bacolcol emphasized that an immediate eruption is unlikely and Taal Volcano remains under Alert Level 1, signifying low-level unrest.

Bacolcol advised the public to be aware of vog formation, which can be detrimental to health, even though a lack of recent SO2 measurements is due to rainy conditions that dissipate the gas.

He also noted a decrease in volcanic earthquakes, with only three recorded in the past 24 hours compared to eleven on August 30 and 31.