Philippines Issues Warning as Volcano Brings Smog

On Friday, Authorities in the Philippines issued a stark warning regarding the dangers of volcanic activity near the capital city, Manila.

They urged residents to remain in their homes, leading to the closure of schools in five cities and dozens of towns.

The government's Institute of Volcanology and Seismology reported heightened activity in the volcanic fluids of Taal Volcano's crater lake, resulting in the emission of volcanic gases.

Furthermore, the Civil Aviation Authority asked pilots on Friday to avoid flying near the volcano's crater.

Taal Volcano, located in Batangas province near Manila, stands at 311 meters and ranks as the Philippines' second-most-active volcano.

It has erupted 33 times since 1572, with its most recent eruption occurring in October 1977. However, signs of unrest were observed between 2008 and 2011 and again in 2019.

The current alert level remains at level one, indicating "a slight increase in volcanic seismicity, gas and steam activity."

This ongoing seismic and volcanic activity is attributed to the Philippines being situated within the Pacific Ring of Fire, an area prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.