Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) warned that hazardous eruption of the Taal Volcano is still possible despite its seemingly weakening activity.
The state volcanologist explained that the sudden lull of the 331-meter high volcano means that it is recharging for a destructive eruption.
Phivolcs officer-in-charge Renato Solidum Jr. said the Taal volcano is swollen and has tilted slightly because of movements of magma beneath the volcano’s edifice.
“The island has slightly tilted while being pushed. Some portions in the northeastern side are sinking. Maybe the houses there are already under water.” Solidum said.
Solidum stressed the swelling of volcano means there’s a resupply of magma based on earthquakes and ground deformation observed.
“Ang pagbitak ng lupa at paglindol ay related sa pag-akyat ng magma papunta sa mababaw na parte ng Taal Volcano edifice,” he added.
“Maraming lindol at patuloy pa rin ang pagkakaroon ng lindol at ang iba dito ay nagpapahiwatag na kumikilos ang magma so nandyan pa rin ang activity.”
Alert level 4 remains in effect, which means a hazardous eruption is still possible within hours or days.
Read more: Duterte wants massive evacuation centers amid Taal Volcano crisis
