Taal Volcano let off a big number of volcanic earthquakes over a 24-hour period on Thursday or a total of 269, which was higher than the 254 logged on Wednesday, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).

The volcano let out 212 volcanic quakes on Tuesday and 83 on Monday.

“In the past 24-hour period (on Thursday), the Taal Volcano Network recorded 269 volcanic earthquakes, including 219 episodes of volcanic tremor having durations of one to 37 minutes, 49 low frequency volcanic earthquakes, and one volcano-tectonic earthquake,” Phivolcs said.

“Activity at the main crater consisted of weak emission of steam-laden plumes from fumarolic vents that 10 meters. Sulfur dioxide emission averaged 1,670 tonnes/day yesterday, 01 April 2021,” it added.

Because of the increased number of volcanic quakes from Taal on Wednesday and Thursday, Phivolcs is still maintaining Alert Level 2 over the Taal Volcano, indicating “increased unrest.”

“Phivolcs reminds the public that at Alert Level 2, sudden steam-driven or phreatic explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas can occur and threaten areas within and around TVI (Taal Volcano Island),” the agency said.

“Phivolcs strongly recommends that entry must be strictly prohibited into Taal Volcano Island, Taal’s Permanent Danger Zone or PDZ, especially the vicinities of the main crater and the Daang Kastila fissure, and occupancy and boating on Taal Lake,” it added.