The recent increase in alert levels on the Taal Volcano to level 3 by the Philippines has brought this event to global attention. A Phreatomagmatic Eruption (PE) happened causing the expulsion of a one-kilometer high, dark grayish plume. Level 3 alert indicates magmatic unrest suggesting possibilities of further eruptions.
Understanding the Geographic Location
The Taal Volcano is positioned on the island of Luzon, approximately 50 km from Manila, Philippines. This geographical location makes it one of the highly active volcanoes. The Philippines lies on the intersection of two tectonic plates – the Philippines Sea Plate and the Eurasian plate. As a result, the country is prone to frequent earthquakes and volcanic activities. The Pacific “Ring of Fire,” an area known for its intense seismic activity, also houses the Taal Volcano.
The Phreatomagmatic Eruption: An Overview
A Phreatomagmatic Eruption results from the interaction between new magma or lava and water, causing explosive outcomes. Sources of water in this context can range from groundwater, hydrothermal systems, surface runoff, to a lake or the sea. This type of eruption doesn’t stand alone but is among numerous others like the Icelandic, Hawaiian, Strombolian, Vulcanian, Pelean, and Plinian types of eruptions.
Potential Dangers
Due to the inherent nature of a Phreatomagmatic Eruption, potential hazards include pyroclastic density currents that make up clouds of hot gas, ash, and other such volcanic debris. There’s also the risk of a volcanic tsunami.
A Complex Volcano
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) classifies Taal Volcano as a “complex” one. This classification, also known as a compound volcano, indicates that it doesn’t possess just one main vent or cone, but many eruption points. Mount Vesuvius, located on the west coast of Italy, provides another example of a complex volcano.
Unpredictability of Taal
The Taal Volcano has erupted more than 30 times over the last few centuries, with its most recent eruption recorded in 2020. Its unpredictable nature is due to its inherent complexity and geographical location.
For those seeking a more fundamental understanding, a volcano is a vent or opening in the earth’s crust through which molten material eruptions happen suddenly. Understanding these properties provides a better understanding of the Taal Volcano’s activities and the risks attached to living in close proximity to such volatile natural structures.
