Phivolcs: Number of volcanic quakes at Taal drops to 10

The number of quakes recorded at restive Taal Volcano in Batangas declined in the last 24 hours, but the decrease in the occurrence of tremors was not enough for state volcanologists to bring down the alert level there. In its 7:32 a.m. update, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) recorded 10 volcanic quakes around Taal, one of which was felt at Intensity III (weak) Saturday afternoon. "One of these events which occurred at 4:28 p.m. was felt by residents at Intensity III in Barangay (village) Pira-Piraso and at Intensity II in Brgy. Calauit," it said. Also, Phivolcs said water temperature at the Main Crater Lake at the west side via Alas-as slightly increased from 29.8 to 30.1 degrees Celsius. Phivolcs said Alert Level 2 remains over Taal Volcano with the interpretation that magma has been intruding towards the surface, as manifested by carbon dioxide being released in the Main Crater Lake and increase in seismic activity. It reiterated its advice that the Main Crater, Daang Kastila Trail and Mt. Tabaro are strictly off-limits because sudden hazardous steam-driven explosions may occur and high concentrations of toxic gases may accumulate. Also, it said breathing air with high concentration of gases can be lethal to humans, animals and even cause damage to vegetation. Phivolcs added the entire Volcano Island is a Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ), and permanent settlement in the island is strictly not recommended. — LBG, GMA News