The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) reported continuing eruptive activity at Taal during 7-13 January. Gas-and-steam emissions generally rose 400-600 m above the crater rim and drifted SW; emissions were not observed on 9 January. Sulfur dioxide emissions averaged 5,868, 1,383, and 1,811 tonnes per day on 8, 11, and 13 January, respectively. A phreatic eruption at 2351 on 10 January generated a plume that rose 900 m above the crater rim and drifted SW; the eruption lasted for three minutes. One volcanic earthquake per day was detected on 9 and 12 January. The Alert Level remained at 1 (on a scale of 0-5); PHIVOLCS reminded the public that the entire Taal Volcano Island was a Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) and recommended that the Main Crater and areas along the Daang Kastila fissure should remain prohibited.

Geological Summary. Taal is one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines and has produced some powerful eruptions. The 15 x 20 km Talisay (Taal) caldera is largely filled by Lake Taal, whose 267 km2 surface lies only 3 m above sea level. The maximum depth of the lake is 160 m, with several submerged eruptive centers. The 5-km-wide Volcano Island in north-central Lake Taal is the location of all observed eruptions. The island is composed of coalescing small stratovolcanoes, tuff rings, and scoria cones. Powerful pyroclastic flows and surges have caused many fatalities.

Source: Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS)