An Alert Level 2 remained hoisted over Taal Volcano in Philippines on Monday after the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) recorded an unprecedented increase in seismic activity with up to 14 volcanic earthquakes in the region.

Taal Volcano’s (14.0000°N, 120.9833°E) seismic network recorded fourteen (14 ) volcanic earthquakes during the past 24 hours, Phivolcs announced on its official site.

Phivolcs maintains the alert with the interpretation that magma has been intruding towards the surface, as manifested by CO2 being released in the Main Crater Lake and sustained seismic activity.

According to field observation and measurements conducted by Phivolcs at the eastern sector inside the Main Crater Lake, the water temperature increased from 30.5°C to 31.5°C, raising fear over a possible eruption.

PHIVOLCS advises the public that the Main Crater, Daang Kastila Trail and Mt. Tabaro (1965 -1977 Eruption Site) are strictly off-limits because sudden hazardous steam-driven explosions may occur and high concentrations of toxic gases may accumulate, it said.

Tourists are strictly urged not to visit the area as breathing air with high concentration of gases can be lethal, Phivolcs said, reminding that entire Volcano Island is a Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ), and permanent settlement in the island is strictly not recommended.

Mount Bulusan volcano in Irosin town of Sorsogon province, south of Manila in central Philippines, spewed ash in February this year, covering several villages and making hundreds of people flee homes and farms. However, the volcano's status remained at Alert Level 1, meaning the source of activity was hydrothermal and shallow, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said.

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