It is one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines ... and it is located only 65 km south of the capital Manila. The Taal spat a huge ash cloud on Sunday, and thousands of residents were evacuated as a precaution, authorities said.
Filipino seismologists have recorded lava movements. A consequent explosive eruption could occur "within a few days or weeks" if this activity continues, said Renato Solidum, head of the Institute of Volcanology and Seismology in the Philippines. The region went on alert 4 for "risk of imminent eruption".
The last eruption of Taal dates from 1977.
everyone within the vicinity of taal volcano, please stay safe! please wear masks and other protection to prevent lung, eye and skin irritation
pic.twitter.com/ZaVyaoleeV
A kilometer high column of ash was visible and audible rumblings in the vicinity of this popular volcano. More than 2,000 residents living on the island where the Taal is located, in the middle of a lake, have been evacuated as a safety measure, local authorities said. Residents of a neighboring island could also be evacuated if the situation worsens.
The Ring of Fire
The Philippine archipelago is located on the Pacific "ring of fire", where the tectonic plates collide, causing earthquakes and regular volcanic activity.
In January 2018, tens of thousands of people had to be evacuated due to an eruption of Mont Mayon, in the central region of Bicol.
everyone within the vicinity of taal volcano, please stay safe! please wear masks and other protection to prevent lung, eye and skin irritation
pic.twitter.com/ZaVyaoleeV