Taal Volcano Eruption Could Cause Tsunamis, Flying Rocks, And Other Tragic Scenarios

The possible eruption of the Taal Volcano could lead to terrifying scenarios such as volcanic tsunamis, flying volcanic rocks, or base surges, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).

On Thursday, January 16, 2020, GMA News Online reported that according to PHIVOLCS’ hazard map, several barangays in Batangas are at an increased risk of a tsunami or lakewater oscillation that could reach up to three meters high.

“Kung significant ‘yung volume na mahuhulog sa tubig, madi-displace din niya ‘yung tubig sa lake at ‘pag ganyan po, merong wave na maitutulak pupunta sa dalampasigan,” PHIVOLCS Director Renato Solidum explained in a 24 Oras report, GMA News Online wrote in a January 15 article.

What other parents are reading

Speech Therapist Organizes Activities For Young Taal Victims: 'Kids Need Play To Heal'

#TaalVolcanoEruption: Saan Pwedeng Mag-Donate Ng Breast Milk?

Here is the list of Batangas barangays that are most susceptible to volcanic tsunamis:

What other parents are reading

Lessons From Taal: How Homeschooling Moms Are Turning The Calamity Into A Teachable Moment

DOH Orders Price Freeze On Medicines, Supplies In Areas Affected By Taal Eruption

In a January 15 report, GMA News Online also reported that other possible scenarios that might be caused by a volcanic eruption include base surges and flying volcanic rocks.

According to PHIVOLCS, base surges are a kind of pyroclastic density currents (PDCs), which are “hot gases and ash that rush down the volcanic slopes or rapidly outward from a source vent at high speeds.” PDCs are said to be “the most lethal of volcanic hazards” and can cause asphyxiation (suffocation), abrasion, incineration, and burial in the hot volcanic material.

A base surge can also instantly destroy properties and kill people along shoreline communities.

What other parents are reading

Tulong-Tulong Tayo: Here's Where You Can Send Donations For Taal Victims

Fish From Taal Lake And Batangas Are Unsafe To Eat, Says DOH

Director Solidum explained, “Kakalat po palayo mula sa crater ang eruption deposit at gagapang at posibleng tumawid sa tubig at umabot doon sa lupa.” The PHIVOLCS hazard maps also indicate that there are towns at risk of base surges.

Lastly, areas near Taal Volcano may also experience ballistic projectiles or materials, like gigantic rocks, spewed from the crater. Director Solidum said that when the volcano erupted in 1965, huge rocks hit boats and people in nearby areas.

Here is the list of areas in Batangas that are most susceptible to ballistic projectiles:

Stay safe, everyone!

Is your child visibly stressed or agitated over the Taal Volcano eruption? Click here to learn how to comfort her in the face of significant natural disasters.

What other parents are reading

4 Steps To Help Your Child Cope With Natural Disasters (Even If You're Scared Too)

Two Cases Of SARS-Like Virus Now Detected Outside Of China

#TaalVolcanoEruption: Saan Pwedeng Mag-Donate Ng Breast Milk?

This Dad's Baby Bottle Cleaning Hack Will Make The Chore Easier For All Parents