Volcano brings ash to capital Manila, people warned not to go outside

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said it had observed hot volcanic fluids rising in Taal's crater lake, leading to volcanic gas emissions. The alert level remained at 1 on a scale of 5, indicating "a slight increase in eruptions and steam or gas activity."

Smog covers the Philippine capital Manila on September 22. Photo: Getty Images

Located in a beautiful lake in Batangas province near Manila, the 311-meter-high Taal Volcano is one of the 24 most active volcanoes in the Philippines.

In January 2020, it spewed a column of ash and steam up to 15 kilometers high, forcing more than 100,000 people to evacuate and dozens of flights to be canceled as thick ash fell as far as Manila.

Volcanic smog consists of tiny droplets containing volcanic gases such as sulfur that can irritate the eyes, throat and respiratory tract. Authorities suspended classes on Friday in dozens of towns and cities near the capital region.

The Philippine aviation authority on Friday asked pilots to avoid flying near the volcano's peak "as airborne ash and debris from sudden explosions could pose a hazard to aircraft."

The Philippines lies on the Pacific "Ring of Fire", where volcanic activity and earthquakes frequently occur.

Hoang Anh (according to Bloomberg, Reuters)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/nui-lua-mang-tro-bui-den-thu-do-manila-nguoi-dan-duoc-canh-bao-khong-nen-ra-ngoai-post265722.html