REGIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Taal Volcano: Low-Level Unrest Continues
Photo credit: Phivolcs
Taal Volcano remains under Alert Level 1, signifying low-level unrest, based on the 24-hour monitoring period from midnight of July 17 to midnight of July 18, 2025. Although the current activity is not classified as explosive, the observed parameters underscore the need for vigilance and strict adherence to safety advisories.
In the past day, Taal registered one phreatomagmatic eruption event lasting about 12 minutes. This type of eruption, which occurs when magma interacts with water, produces steam, ash, and gas. Seismic activity also persisted, with six volcanic earthquakes recorded, including five volcanic tremors lasting between two to six minutes each.
Sulfur dioxide emissions, a key indicator of volcanic activity, measured at 504 tonnes per day on July 15. Meanwhile, the Main Crater Lake remains highly acidic, with a pH of 0.3 as of February, and elevated in temperature, recorded at 68.7°C in April. These conditions point to ongoing hydrothermal activity beneath the surface.
Weak steam-laden plumes rising up to 400 meters were observed, drifting southeast. Ground deformation data continue to show long-term deflation of the Taal Caldera alongside short-term inflation of the southeastern flank of Taal Volcano Island, which suggests continued subsurface activity.
Given these observations, entry into Taal Volcano Island, particularly the Permanent Danger Zone including the Main Crater and Daang Kastila fissures, remains strictly prohibited. Likewise, occupancy and boating on Taal Lake, as well as flying aircraft near the volcano, are not allowed.
Even at low alert, hazards such as steam-driven or gas-driven explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and dangerous gas accumulations can still occur without warning. Residents and visitors are reminded to stay informed through official bulletins and comply with all safety advisories issued by authorities.
Taal Volcano, though quiet on the surface compared to its eruptive episodes of the past, continues to be a dynamic natural feature that demands respect and caution from surrounding communities and visitors.
In the past day, Taal registered one phreatomagmatic eruption event lasting about 12 minutes. This type of eruption, which occurs when magma interacts with water, produces steam, ash, and gas. Seismic activity also persisted, with six volcanic earthquakes recorded, including five volcanic tremors lasting between two to six minutes each.
Sulfur dioxide emissions, a key indicator of volcanic activity, measured at 504 tonnes per day on July 15. Meanwhile, the Main Crater Lake remains highly acidic, with a pH of 0.3 as of February, and elevated in temperature, recorded at 68.7°C in April. These conditions point to ongoing hydrothermal activity beneath the surface.
Weak steam-laden plumes rising up to 400 meters were observed, drifting southeast. Ground deformation data continue to show long-term deflation of the Taal Caldera alongside short-term inflation of the southeastern flank of Taal Volcano Island, which suggests continued subsurface activity.
Given these observations, entry into Taal Volcano Island, particularly the Permanent Danger Zone including the Main Crater and Daang Kastila fissures, remains strictly prohibited. Likewise, occupancy and boating on Taal Lake, as well as flying aircraft near the volcano, are not allowed.
Even at low alert, hazards such as steam-driven or gas-driven explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and dangerous gas accumulations can still occur without warning. Residents and visitors are reminded to stay informed through official bulletins and comply with all safety advisories issued by authorities.
Taal Volcano, though quiet on the surface compared to its eruptive episodes of the past, continues to be a dynamic natural feature that demands respect and caution from surrounding communities and visitors.
Jul 18, 2025
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