Although it needs to be clarified whether Taal Volcano emits VOG or something else, the state volcanologists have started observing this volcano carefully.
The latest about Taal Volcano is that the smog the residents have been observing is not coming from Taal Volcano, as Phivolcs and DENR have been confirming.
The residents and locals of Metro Manila identified smog at the site of Taal Volcano. Phivolcs examined the situation and issued Alert Level 1. The local government suspended Friday classes in the region. However, Phivolcs has clarified that this specific smog is moving west-southwest, which means it will not move toward Metro Manila. The Department of Environment and National Resources (DENR) seconded the opinion.
Phivolcs said, “The smog [in Metro Manila] is not related to [the] Taal Volcano. Instead, the vog was over areas on the western side of Taal Volcano.”
According to the DENR, “It may be inferred that the smog may be primarily attributed to emissions from heavy vehicular traffic, especially during rush hour. Air quality varies in time and places and can change anytime depending on pollution sources and meteorological factors.”
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) mentioned today at 12:30 PM local time that Taal Volcano emits volcanic smog. According to Phivolcs, “Since 12:30 PM today, volcanic smog or VOG has been observed over Taal Lake by the Taal Volcano Network and has lingered over the region until present.”
This development created an emergency situation in Batangas, where the local government suspended Friday classes. Moreover, the authorities alerted the hospitals to deal with any kind of situation.
Volcanic smog, or VOG, consists of some specific droplets that may contain sulfur dioxide or some other volcanic gas. These gas are acidic. Therefore, we feel irritation in our throat, respiratory tract, and eyes. Therefore, Phivolcs suggests being careful.
Phivolcs also noted that chances of acid rain are also possible. It can happen during rainfall. The plume may disperse in these volcanic gas emission areas in this particular situation. Phivolcs warns that acid rain can damage crops and houses with metal roofs. However, Phivolcs has issued only Alert Level 1, which means Taal Volcano will not be dangerous soon.
