Phivolcs warns of high carbon dioxide levels at Taal Volcano crater - 1st April 2011

Citing records showing increased carbon dioxide levels in the area, state volcanologists warned visitors and tourists Friday against venturing near the crater of Taal Volcano – a popular summer tourist attraction in Batangas province.

Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) head Renato Solidum Jr. said carbon dioxide levels in March were more than four times higher that those recorded last year.

“Masyadong mataas ang carbon dioxide na lumalabas sa kanyang crater. Last year 1,000 tons per day, tumaas nitong taong ito. Since January, 2,000 tons per day at sa March 4,600 tons per day," Solidum said in an interview on dzBB radio.

He said this was due to magma underground releasing gas.

“Ang aming reminder huwag pumasok ang mga tao, turista o sinuman sa crater ng volcano kasi delikado (We are reminding the public, especially tourists, not to get close to the crater," he said. Read More