Taal Volcano quakes increase in number in 24 hours

According to the most recent bulletin of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), there were 11 earthquakes produced by the activity of the Taal Volcano today, April 12, 2011. This is 4 quakes more than yesterday's recorded volcanic quakes.

Taal Volcano | Photo courtesy of adcorner.ph/danielg

The bulletin added that the carbon dioxide emissions of the Volcano is still in high levels which suggest anomalous gas release from the magma at depth. The Alert Level II hoisted last Saturday has not been lifted due to the increased activity of Taal Volcano.

The Institute had advised the public that the Main Crater, Daang Kastila Trail and Mt. Tabaro (1965 -1977 Eruption Site) are strictly off-limits because sudden hazardous steam-driven explosions may occur and high concentrations of toxic gases may accumulate.

In today's episode of TV Patrol, it was reported that there were cracks noted on the walls and floors of the houses and on the roads in Talisay, Batangas which is 10 km away from Taal Volcano. The Phivolcs is still to investigate what caused the cracks.

Taal Volcano is located in Batangas and is one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines. During its past eruptions, it has killed more than 5,000 people to date. There has been a total of 33 recorded eruptions at Taal since 1572.