BATANGAS, PHILIPPINES – The Taal Caldera was covered in volcanic fog, or “vog,” on Tuesday afternoon, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).

Numerous municipalities in the province of Batangas are affected by this phenomenon: Agoncillo, Laurel, Balete, Sta. Teresita, Calaca, Mabini, Mataasnakahoy, Lemery, San Nicolas, and Talisay.

Vog is present in the area due partly to Taal Volcano’s production of 6,837 tons of sulfur dioxide on Monday.

Teresita Bacolcol, the director of Phivolcs, advised the public to be cautious even though the region was under warning level 1, marked by low-level disturbance and only one recorded volcanic tremor lasting two minutes on Tuesday.

Bacolcol stressed that mask use, staying hydrated, and limiting outside activity are crucial to lessen the consequences of vog exposure.

Depending on exposure time and concentration, tiny droplets of volcanic gas in the vapor can irritate the throat, eyes, and respiratory tract.

In addition, Taal Volcano Island is inaccessible during alert level 1 because of the possible dangers of deadly gas leaks, volcanic earthquakes, and abrupt steam-driven or phreatic eruptions.

These risks emphasize the necessity of strict safety regulations and ongoing observation to protect the health and safety of locals and tourists near Taal Caldera.

While officials remain watchful, the public is urged to follow safety precautions and stay updated about Phivolcs to secure their safety during volcanic activity.

Sources:(1),(2)

Keep Reading: DSWD provides P45.3-M aid to 9K residents in Agusan del Sur