Taal Volcano erupts, ash plume reaches 1,200 metres

Taal Volcano in the Philippines erupted early Thursday, projecting a column of ash and steam approximately 1,200 metres (3,937 feet) into the atmosphere. The eruption was detected by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), which promptly raised the alert level and issued warnings for communities within a 10‑kilometre radius of the crater. Authorities ordered temporary evacuations in nearby barangays and advised residents to wear masks, keep windows closed, and avoid outdoor activities until air quality improves.

PHIVOLCS continues to monitor seismic activity, gas emissions, and ground deformation at Taal, one of the country’s most active volcanoes, which has a history of explosive eruptions. The agency will update the public as conditions evolve, and local disaster management teams remain on standby to respond to any further developments.