Travel Advisory: Taal Volcano Eruption

Taal Volcano, Talisay, Batangas

Last Sunday, January 12, Taal Volcano has shocked everyone with its unexpected activity that was raised up to Alert Level 4 - meaning a "hazardous eruption" may happen in the next hours or days.

Before and after images. Photo Credits to @itsemarargarin (left) Dante Pamintuan/ @coffee_dante (right)

As of today, January 13, 2020, nearly half a million people near the Manila have been urged for a "total evacuation" after the volcano spewed a big cloud of ashes that reached up to 14 kilometers (9 miles). The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), had everyone evacuated within the 17-kilometer (10.5 miles) radius around the volcano which is considered as a volcanic danger zone including that in Batangas, Laguna, Cavite, and others. 

Taal's main crater

More than 16, 400 people had been sought to shelter yet their numbers are likely to be higher in the upcoming days. Although some still choose not to leave their homes, they are still being encouraged to evacuate for their own safety. 

The evacuation was made difficult due to the ashfall that made the roads slippery and hampered the visibility in the area. Electricity was also cut to several areas in Batangas. Aside from that, classes and all government offices in Metro Manila, CALABARZON, and Central Luzon were also suspended today, January 13, 2020. 

Affected also by Taal Volcano's eruption was Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport which was CLOSED forcing it to cancel and delay several domestic and international flights. ( You may check the status of your flights in your airline's website or contact your travel agent immediately) 

What will happen to Taal Volcano for the next hours and days is very unpredictable which is why everyone is advised to practice extreme caution. As of the moment, all we could do is stay in a safe area and pray for better days. Stay safe everyone! 

Here are some safety reminders for everyone to keep in mind during this kind of situation:

1. Stay Calm
2. Take note of emergency numbers 
3. Bring Emergency food and water
4. Wear sturdy shoes and clothing that'll protect you from the ashfalls
5. Bring battery-operated radio and stay updated with the latest news
6. Ashfalls are very prominent during these times, make sure to wear an N95 mask or a damp towel to protect your mouth from inhaling these toxic wastes. Make sure to wear an eyeglass or goggles as well. 
7. Stay indoors
8. Closed all doors and windows; Place damp towels or cloth at door openings and other open sources in your house. 
9. Avoid contamination from the ash by covering all water containers and foods, and washing all foods. 
10. Keep your pets indoor.
11. If you're driving, STOP at the side of the road if it causes low visibility. Don't use your wiper, it'll damage your windows and will only cause a stain.  

Prior to its eruption, Taal Volcano is one of the must-visit places near Manila, check out here to know what it's like before:  Quick Day Tour Guide in Taal Volcano

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