Sunday, May 1, 2011

21 quakes in 24 hours


Source: Google Images
The Taal Volcano in the province of Batangas (Philippines) has been very active recently.  It is one of the most active volcanoes in the country.  Taal volcano is unique because it has a lake inside its crater called Crater Lake. State volcanologists recorded 21 volcanic quakes in one day on the 18th of last month.  The magma has been rising toward the surface, carbon dioxide is being released in Crater Lake, and this increase in seismic activity have caused alarm.  The water temperature of Crater Lake has also increased.  It is being said by The Phillippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) that sudden hazardous steam-driven explosions may occur and high concentrations of toxic gases may accumulate, so three sites are off limits.  These high concentrations of gases are harmful to humans and animals and can be lethal, as well as damage vegetation.  Permanent settlement on the island is strictly not recommended.

Source: explorevolcanoesnow.com
The number of earthquakes have increased.  From 9 earthquakes on April 15 to 21 on the 18th!  Officials have done a good job of recognizing the signs of an eruption and have evacuated residents.  We'll see when it erupts...

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