There were 45 volcanic earthquakes recorded in Taal for the past 24 hours, a little more than the 32 volcanic quakes recorded the previous day, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said Tuesday.

“(The 45 volcanic quakes) are associated with magmatic processes beneath the edifice. Two of these events were felt at 7:37 p.m. and 7:51 p.m. at Intensity 1 in Barangay Bilibinwang, Agoncillo, Batangas,” it added.

Volcanic earthquakes are caused by movements or eruptions of magma from the volcano.

Meanwhile, weak emission of plumes measuring 50 to 100 meters has been observed in Taal Volcano for the past few days, as it remains under Alert Level 2 (decreased unrest).

The weaker eruption is based on the height of the plume coming out of the crater.

Volcanic plume or eruption plume is a column of hot volcanic ash and gas emitted into the atmosphere during an explosive volcanic eruption.

Phivolcs reiterated that entry into Taal Volcano Island, Taal’s Permanent Danger Zone, must be strictly prohibited.

People are also advised to observe precautions due to ground displacement across fissures, frequent ashfall, and minor earthquakes.

The magma intrusion from below causes the fissures to form, Phivolcs director Renato Solidum Jr. said.

A fissure is a linear volcanic vent through which lava erupts, usually without any explosive activity.

The vent is often a few meters wide and may be many kilometers long.

Likewise, local government units are advised to additionally assess previously evacuated areas within the seven-kilometer radius for damages and road accessibilities, and to strengthen preparedness, contingency and communication measures in case of renewed unrest. (PNA)