A significant earthquake with a magnitude of 6.5 struck Mindoro, Philippines on Thursday, according to the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ). The quake was found to have originated at a depth of 10 kilometers.
Alert Level Raised for Taal Volcano
In related developments, the alert level for Taal, a volcano near Manila, has been escalated. Furthermore, the unrest at Mount Mayon has also intensified.
State volcanologists who are keeping a close eye on Taal Volcano have reported 38 volcanic earthquakes, which included 2 volcanic tremors that each lasted for two minutes on Wednesday.
Possible Indications of Greater Volcanic Activity
The volcanologists have cautioned that the heightened temperatures in the main crater lake could indicate a possibility of steam or phreatic explosions. They also warned of potential volcanic quakes, emission of toxic gases, and ashfall from Taal Volcano’s main crater, which is located about 80km east of Manila.
Summary
- A 6.5 magnitude earthquake struck Mindoro, Philippines on Thursday.
- The alert level for Taal Volcano, located near Manila, has been raised.
- State volcanologists recorded 38 volcanic earthquakes at Taal Volcano on Wednesday.
- Elevated temperatures in the main crater lake of Taal could indicate potential volcanic activity, including steam explosions, volcanic quakes, toxic gas emissions, and ashfall.
