Taal Volcano is a complex volcano located on the island of Luzon in the Philippines.Historical eruptions are concentrated on Volcano Island, an island near the middle of Lake Taal. The lake partially fills Taal [1] Caldera, which was formed by powerful prehistoric eruptions between 140,000 to 5,380 BP. Viewed from Tagaytay Ridge, Taal Volcano and Lake presents one of the most picturesque and attractive views [2] in the Philippines. It is located about 50 km (31 mi) south of the capital of the country, the city of Manila. The volcano had several violent eruptions in the past causing loss of life in the island and the populated areas surrounding the lake, with the death toll estimated at around 5,000 to 6,000. Because of its proximity to populated areas and its eruptive history, the volcano was designated a Decade Volcano, worthy of close study to prevent future natural disasters. It is one of the active volcanoes in the Philippines and part of the Pacific ring of fire. Contents [hide] 1 Geography 2 Recent activity o o o o 2.1 2011 2.2 2010 2.3 2009 2.4 2008 3 Geological history 4 Eruption history o o 4.1 The 1754 eruption 4.2 1911 eruption o 4.2.1 Death toll 4.2.2 Observations on the Volcano Island after the eruption 4.2.3 Changes on the crater after the eruption 4.2.4 Vulcan Point 4.3 1965 to 1977 eruption 5 Eruption precursors at Taal o 5.1 Other possible precursors 6 Images 7 See also 8 References 9 Other references 10 External links [edit]Geography Taal Volcano and Lake are wholly located in the province of Batangas. The northern half of Volcano Island falls under the jurisdiction of the lake shore town ofTalisay, and the southern half to San Nicolas. The other towns that encircle Taal Lake include Tanauan, Talisay, Laurel, Agoncillo, Santa [3] Teresita, Alitagtag,Cuenca, Lipa, Balete and Mataas na Kahoy. Permanent settlement in the island is prohibited by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology or PHIVOLCS, declaring the whole Volcano Island as a high-risk area and a Permanent [4] Danger Zone (PDZ). Despite the warnings, poor families have settled on the island, risking their lives, [5][6][7][8] earning a living by fishing and farming crops from the rich volcanic soil. [edit]Recent activity Although the volcano has been quiet since 1977, it has shown signs of unrest since 1991, with strong seismic activity and ground fracturing events, as well as the formation of small mud pots and mud geysers on parts of the island. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) [9] regularly issues notices and warnings about current activity at Taal, including ongoing seismic unrest. [edit]2011 5 Jul. Alert Level was lowered from 2 to 1 after 11 weeks (April 9) of increased activity. 1 Jun. Alert Level 2. Volcanic earthquakes (24 hrs) = 22. (2) Intensity II earthquakes in the eastern sector of volcano accompanied by rumbling sounds. Bubbling activity observed in the middle of Main Crater Lake. 31 May. Alert Level 2. Volcanic earthquakes (24 hrs) = 31. (1) Intensity I and (2) Intensity II earthquakes, NE & SE sector of volcano accompanied by rumbling sounds. 30 May. Alert Level 2. Volcanic earthquakes (24 hrs) = 115. (1) Intensity I, (9) Intensity II, (1) Intensity III, and (1) Internsity IV earthquakes, NE, SW & SE sector of volcano accompanied by rumbling sounds. 29 May. Alert Level 2. Volcanic earthquakes (24 hrs) = 10. 28 May. Alert Level 2. Volcanic earthquakes (24 hrs) = 6. Magma has been intruding towards the surface, as indicated by continuing high rates of CO2 emissions in the Main Crater Lake and sustained seismic activity. Field measurements on 24 May 2011 show lake temperatures slightly increased, pH values slightly more acidic and water levels 4 cm higher. A ground deformation survey conducted around the Volcano Island 26 April - 3 May 2011 showed that the volcano edifice inflated [10] slightly relative to the 05-11 April 2011 survey. 22 May. Alert level 2. Volcanic earthquakes (25 hrs) = 5. [11] 10 Apr. Alert Level 2. The main crater, Daang Kastila Trail, and Mt Tabaro are strictly off-limits to the public because sudden hazardous steam-driven explosions could occur. Breathing air with high concentration of gases can be lethal to humans, animals and can even damage vegetation, the [12] agency warned [edit]2010 8 June. PHIVOLCS raised the volcano status to Alert Level 2 (scale is 0-5, 0 referring to No Alert status), which indicates the volcano is undergoing magmatic intrusion which could eventually lead to [13] an eruption. PHIVOLCS reminds the general public that the Main Crater remains off-limits because hazardous steam-driven explosions may occur, along with the possible build-up of toxic gases. Areas with hot ground and steam emission such as portions of the Daang Kastila Trail are considered [14] hazardous. 11–24 May. Crater lake temperature increased by 2-3°C. The composition of Main Crater Lake water has shown above normal values of Mg/Cl, SO4/Cl and Total Dissolved Solids. There has been ground steaming accompanied by hissing sounds on the northern and northeast sides of the main crater. 26 April. Volcanic seismicity had increased. [edit]2009 20 July. National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) executive officer Glenn Rabonza warned that although there were no volcanic quakes detected at Taal since the detection of nine volcanic quakes from June 13 to July 19, and there had been no steaming activity monitored since last recorded on June 23, Phivolcs Alert stands at Level 1, warning that Taal’s main crater is off -limits to the public because steam explosions may suddenly occur or high concentrations of toxic gases may [citation needed] accumulate. Taal Volcano provides a picturesque view from Tagaytay City. [edit]2008 28 August. PHIVOLCS notified the public and concerned authorities that the Taal seismic network recorded ten (10) volcanic earthquakes from 5:30 AM to 3 PM. Two (2) of these quakes that occurred at 12:33 and 12:46 PM, were both felt at intensity II by residents at barangay Pira-piraso. These quakes were accompanied by rumbling sounds. The events were located northeast of the volcano island near Daang Kastila area with depths of approximately 0.6 km (12:33 PM) and 0.8 km (12:46 [15] PM)" [edit]Geological history Taal Volcano is part of a chain of volcanoes along the western side of the edge of the island of Luzon, which were formed by the subduction of the Eurasian Plate underneath the Philippine Mobile Belt. Taal Lake lies within a 25–30 km caldera formed by four explosive eruptions between 500,000 and 100,000 years ago. Each of these eruptions created extensive ignimbrite deposits, reaching as far away as [citation needed] where Manila stands today. the bottom looked very deep and seemed unfathomable. This island covers an area of about 23 square kilometres (8. but at the bottom. It brought great changes in the interior of the crater. [18] one of which was especially remarkable for its size. . No studies had been done to determine whether Napayon or Bubuin Island was formed in the eruption. within the caldera. the crater had widened and the pond within it had been reduced to one-third and the rest of the crater floor was higher and dry enough to walk over it. the greatest eruption of Taal which is described [16][17] below. Forty-seven different cones and craters have been [16] identified on the island. not until March 1808 did another big eruption occur. Taal remained quiet for 54 years except for a minor eruption in 1790. 1716. the volcano displayed such great activity that [17] Father Torna de Abreu had a huge cross of anubing wood erected on the brink of the crater. the year the Agustinian friars founded the town of Taal on the shores of the lake (on what is now San Nicolas. Batangas). a liquid mass was seen in continual ebullition. In 1591. when the whole southeastern portion of the crater (Calauit). Between 1707 and 1731. Activity returned to the Main Crater in 1749. according to chroniclers of that time. A more violent activity happened on September 24. Before.Since the formation of the caldera. opposite Mount Macolod. The height of the crater walls has diminished and near the center of the new crater floor. On its sides were several wells. While this outbreak was not as violent as the one in 1754.9 sq mi). [edit]Eruption history There have been 33 recorded eruptions at Taal since 1572. After the eruption. The first eruption of which there is any record occurred in 1572. The dormant Binintiang Malaki (Big Leg) Crater is the center of the 1707 & 1715 eruption. The 1731 eruption [18] off Pira-Piraso or eastern tip of the island created an island. subsequent eruptions have created another volcanic island. The eruptions of 1707 and 1715 occurred in Binitiang Malaki crater (the cinder cone visible from Tagaytay). a little hill that continually emitted smoke. Then came the great 200-day eruption of 1754. Minor eruptions also emanated from the Binintiang Munti crater on the westernmost tip of the island in 1709 and 1729. From 1605 to 1611. the center of activity shifted from the Main Crater to other parts of Volcano Island. and consists of overlapping cones and craters. another mild eruption took place featured by great masses of smoke issuing forth from the crater. was blown out. known as Volcano Island. and it was remembered for being particularly violent (VEI = 4). the immediate vicinity were covered with ashes to a depth of 84 centimetres (33 in). or just a pumice raft. burning flames intermixed with glowing rocks which. fell into the lake and caused huge waves [note(added by . there frequently formed thunderstorms. and the result was that there was neither tree nor other plant which it did not ruin or crush. created the impression of a large river of fire. the volcano quite unexpectedly commenced to roar and emit. falling back upon the island and rolling down the slopes of the mountain. The strangest thing was. and it was even feared that the catastrophe might involve the shores of the lake. parish priest of Sala. From November 12 to 15. Mount Tabaro. 1966. 1903. it vomited enormous boulders which rolling down the slopes of the island. Buencuchillo. Eruptions have also been recorded in 1634. 1645. Some of the major eruptions are described below: [edit]The 1754 eruption Taal Volcano's greatest recorded eruption occurred in 1754 which lasted from May 15 to December 1. 1754. During the following days there appeared in the lake a large quantity of pumice stone which had been ejected by the volcano. 1873. Taal resumed its former fury. From the said 2nd of June until September 25. moving activity to a new eruption center. sky-high. [16][19] 1885.On July 19. On November 15. 1976 and 1977. and mud in greater quantities than ever before. though not sufficiently to offer any prospect of tranquility. 1967. and stationed at Taal at that time: On May 15. a huge explosion sliced off a huge part of the island. Part of these eject had also reached the hamlet of Bayuyungan and completely destroyed it. 1970. In 1965. During the night of September 25. At daybreak of September 26 we found ourselves forced to abandon our dwelling for fear lest the roofs come down upon us under the weight of ashes and stones which had fallen upon them during that hapless night. ejecting fire. an eruption of gases and ashes killed all the live stock on the island. sand. During the night of November 1. In fact. that within the black column of smoke issuing from the volcano ever since June 2. After this the volcano calmed down considerably. 1790. during the night of which the eruption reached such proportions that the falling ejecta made the entire island appear to be on fire. the volcano never ceased to eject fire and mud of such bad character that the best ink does not cause so black a stain. and it happened that the huge tempest cloud would scarcely ever disappear during two months. 1968. 1874. The following is the narrative account of Fr. The last eruption from the Main Crater was in 1911 which obliterated the crater floor creating the present lake. 1641. rocks. some weaker buildings collapsed. 1842. the fire emitted was quite extraordinary and accompanied by terrifying rumblings. 1825. giving to the whole region an aspect as if a devastating conflagration had swept over it. at about 9 or 10 o'clock in the night. 1969. Another eruption took place in 1904 as a result of which a new outlet was formed in the southeastern wall of the principal crater. The volcano continued thus until June 2. 1635. The depth of the layer of ashes and stones exceeded two "cuartas" (45 centimeters). ashes ejected by the volcano covered the entire island. 1878. stopped short when I took him into mine and never uttered a sound while I was carrying him a good piece of the way. We had already abandoned our habitation and were living in a tower which appeared to offer greater security. The paroxysms were accompanied by swaying motions of the ground which caused all the houses of the town to totter. otherwise we would have been engulfed on the spot. I took one of the toddlers from her and carried him. during which the volcano vomited forth such masses of fire and ejecta that in my opinion. with incessant fear lest the raging waters of the lake overtake us. Shortly afterward the volcano suddenly subsided almost suddenly. and setting fire to the whole island. but while we were still trying to persuade ourselves that the tragedy was over and the volcano had exhausted its bowels. ejecting immense masses of material. if taken together. which were at the moment invading the main part of the town. sweeping away everything they encountered. The cloud of ejecta. therefore. but on this occasion we resolved that the entire population retire to the Sanctuary of Casaysay. We. only the "Administrator" and myself to remain on the spot. Now I also observed that the earth was in continuous. fleeing this living picture of Sodom. as the waves of the angry lake began already to flood the houses nearest to the beach. there being not the smallest portion of the latter which was not covered by the smoke and the glowing rocks and ashes. to the town with the intention of surveying the havoc wrought during the preceding night. The 29th had dawned calm. and violent shocks of earthquakes underneath.Saderra Maso): The waves mentioned were most probably due to the earthquake rather than to the falling rocks]. shouted to all those who were still in the town to take to flight and we all ran off in a hurry. increasing every moment in volume. The . its top was clear and apparently calm. and the little indio who has been wailing while in the arms of his mother. The columns of fire and smoke ascended higher than ever before. we halted in a hut to rest a little and take some food. carried on by the wind. at about 8 o'clock. we heard a crash and then I noticed that smoke was rising from the point of the island that looks towards east. returned on the following day. It still continued in full fury. extended itself toward west and south with the result that we saw already some stones fall close to our shore. a fact which I had failed to notice during the excitement and fear of the flight. therefore. I. swaying motion. At 7 in the evening of November 28 occurred a new paroxysm. Moved by pity. the 29th. Having reached a secure place on elevated ground at a distance of about half a league (2 kilometers) from the town. would not equal the quantity which issued at the time. all the material ejected during so many months. We left the town. On the outskirts of the town. All this was accompanied by terrific lightning and thunder above. I came upon a woman who was so exhausted by her burden of two little children and a bundle of clothing that she could proceed no farther. From this spot the volcano could be contemplated with a little more serenity of mind. All the rest. it began to rain mud and ashes at Caysasay [12 miles from the volcano] and this rain lasted three days. we 3 Europeans . and ashes more than 10 spans [2. and feared that the turn of the convento and the church of Casasay would come in next. Fr. took refuge on the landing of the stairs. burying us alive beneath their weight. On the 3rd and 4th we had a formidable typhoon. Shortly before daybreak of December 1 there was a tremendous crash as if the house were coming down on our heads: the roof of the apse of the church had caved in! Not long afterward. the roof of their kitchen gave away with a thud. the only remnant of a . mud. everything was buried beneath a layer of stones. the warehouse. During the night of the 30th we had not a moment of repose. We caused the bulk of the material to be removed. and awaited there whatever God might dispose with regard to us. But fearing that even these precautions might prove unavailing. on which latter the direction of the wind changed.the only ones who were at the time in the Convento of Caysasay. Between 3 and 4 o'clock in the afternoon of the said 29th. as every moment we heard the loud crush of houses collapsing under of stones.10 m] thick. The most terrifying circumstance was that the whole sky was shrouded in such darkness that we could not have seen the hand placed before the face. had it not been for the sinister glare of incessant lightnings. Both were tile roofs. much more formidable than the preceding ones. which appeared rather like murky nights and we did not occupy ourselves with anything but see to it that the natives swept off the roofs the large quantities of ashes and stones which kept on accumulating upon them and threatened to bring them down upon us. Nor could we use artificial light as this was extinguished by the wind and copious ashes which penetrated everywhere. if a crater should open below the water. mud.viz. I mounted a horse and retired permanently to the Sanctuary of Caysasay. Soon afterward I resolved to visit my town of Taal. carrying the ejecta toward Balayan. nothing was left of it except the walls of the church and convento. as the safest place. I realized that the island had opened in these places and fearing that. the Alcalde. only here and there could be seen an upright post. while new continued to fall on that day and the following. and myself . while there were many whiffs issuing from points in the direction of another headland. The first of December broke somewhat clear and our eyes contemplated everywhere ruins and destruction. To all this was added incessant thunder and lightning. the government house. and it really looked as if the world was going to pieces and its axis had been displaced.20 m] thick. and ashes piled upon them. the walks of the rope factory. and thereafter the volcano quieted down. All was horror those three days. and it was almost a miracle that the roof of the church and convento sustained so great a weight.smoke spread very gradually as far as the crater of the volcano. Prior. The layer of ashes and mud was more than 5 spans [1. an explosion might follow. I went down to the river and found it completely filled up. being situated within easy reach of it. In the villages to the west of the lake. Nearly all of them were demolished by the rocks and beams which had fallen upon them. All the animals of whatever kind have perished. hardly 150 remain in the poorest and least respectable villages. [18] Taal Volcano's crater before the 1911 eruption with the central cone and one of the lakes on the crater floor. Tanauan. as not a green blade remained anywhere.some carried away by the waves of the lake. and inundating their buildings. In other parts of the lake shore have likewise opened many cracks and occurred very extensive slides. others by drowning. too wide and deep to be forded. and less than one league [4 kilometers] from the volcano. swept away by the waves which in these places were so violent that they dug three ditches or channels. with a boat belonging to the alcalde and many of private persons buried in the mud. These towns. all the houses have either collapsed under the load of material which had been piled upon them or have disappeared completely. which suffered little from the rain of ashes. which were the greater and better part. that. and so much of Sala as still existed. and thus rendered impassable the road which joins the town with Balayan. After incredible efforts I finally succeeded in unearthing in what had once been the church and sacristy. together with Taal. . and filled with foul-smelling mud that had ruined or disfigured their contents. the mouth of the river Pansipit having been blocked. the lake is rising and invading the towns of Lipa and Tanauan. The bulk of the population left this neighborhood and settled in more distant places. both being on the lowest level. the rest by starving. I likewise recovered some property from among the ruins of the convento. lay around the lake. The same fate as Taal has befallen the towns of Lipa. while once it was one of the richest and most flourishing places. Thus the beautiful town of Taal remains a deserted wilderness and reduced to the utmost misery. Twelve persons are known to have perished . some by being buried. Thus out of 1200 taxpayers whom Taal contained formerly. The worst of all is. the chests which contained the sacred vestments and vessels.comfortable dwelling. others crushed beneath their collapsing houses. With the aid of some natives of Bauang. This cloud finally shot up in the air. of which 135 were microseismic. 1911. as Taal is distant from it some 37 miles [20] (60 km). but increased rapidly in frequency and intensity. During the night of the 27th of that month. spread. and this marked the culmination of the eruption. The total recorded shocks on that day numbered 26. then dissipated. people were awakened out of their sleep by what they at first took for loud thunder. A huge. . at about [17] 2:30 a. which the people of Manila at first took for lightning. The frequent and increasingly strong earthquakes caused much alarm at Manila. It was crossed and crisscrossed with a brilliant electrical display. soon learned the truth. In Manila in the early hours of January 30. The illusion was heightened when great streaks of lightning were seen to illumine the southern sky. however. m. but the observatory staff was soon able to locate their epicenter in the region of Taal Volcano and assured the public that Manila was in no danger. which were at first of insignificant importance. Those who investigated further. while 10 were quite severe. During the 28th there were recorded 217 distinct shocks.[edit]1911 eruption One of the more devastating eruptions occurred in January. 1911. fanshaped cloud of what looked like black smoke rose to a great height. the seismographs at the Manila Observatory commenced to register frequent disturbances. 000 square kilometres (770 sq mi). it created a blast downward that forced hot steam and gases down the slopes of the crater.On Volcano island.335 lives and injured 199. The detonation from the explosion was heard over an area more than 600 [20] miles (970 km) in diameter. Ashes fell over an area of 2.000 and 80. . although it is known that more perished than the official records show. It seems that when the black.000 cubic meters (VEI = 3). [edit]Death toll The eruption claimed a reported 1.000.000. the destruction was complete. The fact that practically all the vegetation was bent downward. The solid matter ejected had a volume of between 70. away from the crater. although the area in which actual destruction took place measured only 230 square [17] kilometres (89 sq mi). dust from the crater was noticeable in Manila as it settled on furniture and other polished surfaces. accompanied by a shower of hot mud and sand. proved that there must have been a very strong blast down the outside slopes of the cone. fan-shaped cloud spread. Many trees had the bark shredded and cut away from the surface by the hot sand and mud blast that accompanied the explosion and contributed so much to the loss of life and destruction of property. Six hours after the explosion. Very little vegetation was actually burned or even [17] scorched. The seven barangays that existed on the island previous to the eruption were completely wiped out. No evidences of lava could be discovered anywhere. Main Crater with Vulcan Point Island in 2009 [edit]Observations on the Volcano Island after the eruption Volcano Island sank from three to ten feet as a result of the eruption. or both.Post mortem examination of the victims seemed to show that practically all had died of scalding by hot steam or hot mud. It was also found that the southern shore of Lake Taal sank in elevation from the eruption. The devastating effects of the blast reached the west shore of the lake where a number of villages were also destroyed. Cattle to the number of 702 were killed and 543 nipa houses destroyed. Another peculiarity of the geologic aspects of Taal is the fact that no sulphur has been found on the volcano. Crops suffered from the deposit of ashes that fell to a depth of almost half an inch in places near the shore of the lake. nor have geologists been able to trace any visible records of a lava flow having occurred at any time on the volcano back then. The yellow deposits and encrustations noticeable in the crater and its vicinity are iron salts. according to chemical analysis. which came from the . Slight smell of sulfur was perceptible at the volcano. ) Ten years after the eruption. but the preponderance of expert opinion [17] was otherwise. Mount Tabaro. which was always hot and on which it was rather dangerous to walk.gases that escape from the [17] crater. Before 1911. Immediately after the explosion. the vari-colored lakes had disappeared and in their place was one large lake. Opinions after the creation of the lake that the presence of the water in the crater has a tendency to cool off the material below and thus lessen the chances of an explosion or make the volcano extinct. great stretches that were formerly barren and covered with white ashes and . Many places were covered with a shaky crust of volcanic material. a red lake and some holes filled with hot water from which steam issued. a yellow lake. many changes were noted. no changes in the general outline of the island could be discerned at a distance. however. The crater lake gradually rose until it is on a level with the water in Taal Lake. On the island. The vegetation had increased. the crater floor was higher than Taal lake and had several separate openings in which were lakes of different colors. (The subsequent eruption in 1965 and succeeding activities came from a new eruptive center. full of crevices. about ten feet below the level of the lake surrounding the island. [edit]Changes on the crater after the eruption Great changes took place in the crater after the eruption. There was a green lake. Vulcan Point within Crater Lake. on the island of Luzon. The eruption generated "cold" base [22] surges which traveled several kilometers across Lake Taal.e. now called Vulcan Point that projects from the surface of the crater lake was the remnant of the old crater floor that is now surrounded by the 2 kilometres (1. The 1965 eruption was classified [16] as phreatomagmatic. generated by the interaction of magma with the lake water that produced the violent explosion that cut an embayment on Volcano Island. Vulcan Point is cited as the world's largest island within a lake on an island [21] within a lake on an island.cinders became covered with [17] vegetation. devastating villages on the lake shore and.2 mi) wide lake. now referred to as the Main Crater Lake. [edit]1965 to 1977 eruption The most recent period of activity lasted from 1965 to 1977 with the area of activity concentrated in the vicinity of Mount Tabaro. killing about a hundred . i.. Cinder cone and embayment created by the 1965 eruption. [edit]Vulcan Point One large rock. on Taal Island within Lake Taal. [edit]Eruption precursors at Taal Increase in frequency of volcanic quakes with occasional felt events accompanied by rumbling sounds On the Main Crater Lake. Before the 1965 eruption began. the lake's temperature rose to several degrees above normal. in particular. Precursory signs were not interpreted correctly until after the eruption.people. . and bubbling or boiling activity on the lake. The last major activities on the volcano were the phreatic eruptions of 1976 and 1977. which are now called pyroclastic surges when [24] relating to volcanoes. compared it to an atomic base surge) as a process in volcanic eruption. On some eruptions. reaching the shore of Lake Taal. level. led to the recognition of base [23] surge (one of the American geologists who witnessed an atomic bomb explosion as a soldier and visited the volcano shortly after the 1965 eruption. The population of the island was evacuated only after the onset of the eruption. on some eruptions there is no reported increase in the lake's temperature. The strombolian eruptions of 1968 and 1969 produced massive lava flow that eventually covered the bay created by the 1965 eruption. However. That eruption. changes in the water temperature. geysers or mud pots Ground inflation or ground fissuring.the dissolution of acidic volcanic gases into the lake has resulted in the death of large numbers of fish and animals. Development of new or reactivation of old thermal areas like fumaroles.1 earthquake on November 15. A typhoon had passed through the area a few days before the radon spike was measured. one of the most powerful to strike the area in ten years. This increase was followed 22 days later by a magnitude 7. Increase in temperature of ground probe holes on monitoring stations. Fish kills and drying up of [1] vegetation [edit]Other possible precursors Volcanologists measuring the concentration of radon gas in the soil on Volcano island measured an anomalous increase of the radon concentration by a factor of six in October 1994. but when Typhoon Angela. off the coast of Luzon. centered about 50 km south of Taal. crossed Luzon on almost the same track a year later. Therefore. typhoons were ruled out as the cause. no radon spike was measured. and there is strong evidence that the radon originated . Strong sulfuric odor or irritating fumes similar to rotten eggs. inside the caldera. 120°59. Listanco. blue-green in color.9 km in diameter.311 km Type of Volcano: Tuff cone Crater Lakes/Caldera/Maars: MAIN CRATER LAKE . 3 Eruption Type: . 267 sq.25 km across and formed between 140.000 to 5. 4 m above sea level. Batulao (W) and Macolod (SE) GEOLOGICAL FEATURES Rock Type: Olivine basalt. deepest point: 76 m Taal Volcano Island has 47 craters and 4 maars TAAL CALDERA .1. NAME OF VOLCANO: LOCATION: TAAL Batangas (14°00. 1994) VOLCANIC ACTIVITY Number of Historical Eruptions: 33 Latest Eruption/Activity: 1977 Oct.1' E) PHYSICAL FEATURES Elevation: 0. Andesite Tectonic Setting: Macolod Corridor Age of Deposits: 5380+_ 170 ybp (Radiocarbon age. km and 2 m above sea level Adjacent Volcanic Edifice: Makiling (NE) Malepunyo (E).1' N.in the stress accumulation [25] preceding the earthquake.380 BP TAAL LAKE . 1911. Increase in temperature of ground probe holes at Mt. 1968. Lava flows 4. Plinian (e. 1965. 1966) 3. 1878. Increase in frequency of quakes with occasional felt events accompanied by rumbling sounds 2.g. Sulfuric odor and acrid fumes 7. Ashfalls and ballistic projectiles 3. Base surges 2.g. Development of new thermal areas and/or reactivation of old ones 4. 1969) 4. Fissuring and ground subsidence Permanent Danger Zone: Entire Volcano Island Other Buffer Zones: Lakeshore barangays of Talisay.1. Ground swells or inflation and ground fissuring 5. Phreatic (e. 1970) 2. Strombolian (e. Lakeshore landslide 6.g. Increase in temperature and level of Main Crater Lake 3. San Nicolas and Laurel Areas To be Evacuated: In case of an eruption similar in nature and magnitude to: . Agoncillo. Phreatomagmatic (e. Seiches/Tsunamis and flooding 5. 1749. Tabaro 6. 1754) Precursors to Eruptions: 1. Fish kills and drying up of vegetation VOLCANIC HAZARDS Type of Hazards: 1.g. Talisay . tilt) 4. Balete. Eruption Site (Tabaro). Calauit. Buco.06’E. Napayung and Daang Kastila B – Ground Deformation Network EDM lines: Tagbakin (instrument site) to Calauit (2 lines). Buco. . Main Crater Lake chemistry. temperature and level Monitoring Stations A – Seismic Network Central Receiving & Processing Station: Taal Volcano Observatory.9. Visual observations 3. Buco (instrument site) to Pira-piraso (2 lines). San Nicolas and Laurel Additional areas to be evacuated shall be determined based on the development in eruptive style and location of the monitored parameters. Seismic monitoring (number of volcanic quakes and tremors) 2. Main Crater and Pira-piraso Repeater stations: Tagbakin.entire Volcano Island and lakeshore barangays of Talisay.entire Volcano Island and four lakeshore barangays of Agoncillo and Laurel 1911 ACTIVITY . Alas-as .10’N) Monitoring Methods: 1. precise leveling.1965 ACTIVITY . MONITORING ACTIVITY Volcano Observatory: Taal Volcano Observatory. Agoncillo. Ground deformation (EDM. 14°05.7 km N of Main Crater (120°59. Tanauan. Bilibinwang (instrument site) to Saluyan. Talisay Seismic stations: Binintiang Munti. Precise leveling lines: Calauit. is made available on this internet page (Maso`s translations of Spanish texts appear in green courier font face and are repeated in fill length. Calauit History of Taal's activity to 1911 as described by Fr. notably the paper of Dean Worcester (1912).e. other text is slightly abridged and my insertations are identified by []). . The translations form the core of chapter II of Maso's book: "Eruptions within historical times". Maso`s translations of early eyewitness accounts. i. Most more accessible sources on early eruptions of Taal. a portions of that book. which was published by the Weather Bureau in Manila. January 30. For this reason. Pira-piraso Electronic tilt: Daang Kastila. 1999 One of the main sources of information regarding early eruptions of Taal volcano is the slender book (26 pages) by the reverent Miguel Saderra Maso (1991) "The eruption of Taal Volcano. Kaygabok Alas-as. 1911". Saderra Maso Last modification: march 18th. published in the National Geographic magazine. S. largely quote Saderra Maso`s paper for Taal`s eruptions prior to 1904. This paper is difficult to get access to (even in Manila) and the present writer obtained a copy from Chris Newhall (thanks Chris!). for the reason that the volcano had begun to belch forth extraordinary masses of smoke. at about 6 o'clock in the evening. Thomas de Avreu who. [no reference is given] 1716 On September 24.A. and shortly after it became plain that the volcano in Lake Bombon had . that in Lake Bombon [Taal Lake]. is made on the occasion of the establishment of the town Taal by the Augustinians in 1572. which are glowing and destroy the crops of the natives. during the long period of one hundred and thirty-five years.." 1591-1645 In 1591. Something similar we know to have been the case during one hundred and three years from 1808 to 1911.S. We believe that this action was caused by sinister sugns of unusual activity on the part of the volcano. 1716. de Alcantara. [a kind of exorcism] . no damage was done in the town situated on the shores of Lake Bonbon.II: Eruptions within historical times (Saderra Maso) 1572 The first mention of Taal Volcano which we find in Philippine history. 1707 The cone called Binintiag Malaqui burst forth with a tremendous display of thunder and lightning. The naturalist Semper states that in several chronicles are found vague statements concerning eruptions of the volcano which took place during these years [1634. In similarly doubtful and vague notices consists the whole history of Taal volcano from the arrival of Legazpi on the island of Luzon until the beginning of the eighteenth century.. repeated .. or at most very unimportant outbreaks. a great number of detonations were heard in the air. relating the foundation of the town tells us. Gaspar de San Agustin. During this period [1605-1611] we find as a as rector of Taal Fr. since several chroniclers tell us that there were heard frequent rumblings which tzerrified the inhabitants of the neighbouring villages. had a huge cross of anubing (a wood which admirably resists inclemencies of the climate) erected on the brink of the principal crater. 1645]. which intervened between the discovery of the volcano in 1572 and the first well-established eruption in 1707. not content wth saying mass on Pilo Volcan. B. on whose southern shore the town was located. Fr. This makes it probable that.. "there is a volcano of fire which is wont to spit forth many and very large rocks. but aside from fear and trembling. Fr. the volcano showed only solfataric activity.. O. 7 meters) in width was engulfed by the water. gives us the following details concerning the event: With terror we heard during one of the nights a continuous fire of heavy artillery. Simulaneously there was a great commotion in the earth which stirred up the water in the lake. but by Sunday all the combustible material appears to have been consumed. forming immense waves which lashed the shores as though a violent typhoon were raging. At nightfall we were informed that out of the depths of Lake Bonbon. Thursday. but very much sharper. looking like towers. This was followed by a terrible earthquake of long duration. No damage was. high up into the air. which faces Lipa. not with the former frequency. Friday and Saturday. but later torrential rains fell with thunder and lightning. Their persistency caused us to pass the following day in considerable enxiety and fear. and the church was endangered. Great masses of smoke. burst on its southeastern side. large and small. things continued the same way.. since the water had been heated to a degree that it appeared to have been taken from a boiling caldron. Their fury was such that in front of the convento of Taal. done to the neighbouring towns. Fr Torrubia ("Aparato" folio 110). a strip of more than 10 brazas (16. the weather cleared and of the whole tragedy there remained no other signs than the stench of sulfur and of the great quantity of dead fish cast upon the beach by the waves. Finally.. and ashes rushed out of the lake. who copied them from the "Actas de Taal". the whole point called Calauit appeared to be on fire. this time from the lake. however. which is at a distance .. who at the time of this eruption was at Los Baños. however. and in other places of the beach. Sunday morning the sun broke through. some of the latter striking and the whole causing greatest terror. The fire burst forth again.. the waves casting them ashore in a state as if they had been cooked. On the following days. pestilential stench of sulfur which greatly molested the inhabitants of the towns surrounding the lake.8 kilometers. after which we heard only isolated detonations. which rises opposite the volcano on the southeastern shore of the lake. there appeared . 1729 1731 In 1729 took place a new outburst of the volcano which is attested by a report which as late as 1849 existed in the parochial archives of Tanauan. Manuel de Acre. There was an all-pervading.. Later on the eruption seemed to spread into the lake. in the direction of Mount Macolod. The foregoing paragraphs are taken from the narrative of Fr. Vast and towering obelisks of earth and sand arose out of the water. so that the whole point called Calauit appeared to be on fire. or about one mile) in circumference. water. which within a few days formed a new islet of about one quarter of a league (1. at a short distance from the point (of Volcano Island) which looks toward east. as if two mighty armies were engaged in abttle. This eruption killed all the fishes. rather delighted of sand and ashes. especially when i noticed that also from the water there rose enormous columns of sand and ashes. It has been described by Fr.. I thought it strange. accompanied by subterranean rumblings which caused the entire region to tremble. I confess enormous columns that the spectacle. according to ancient custom. Some of the pyramids surged toward north. and left the impress of its fierceness on the very rocks. enormous boulders. and we saw the immense column of smake which rose from the summit of the island. flames .. in the shape of pyramids to marvelous heights and then fell to marvelous back into the lake like illuminated fountains. far from freightening me. Curiosity led me to go and examine sulphurous the terrible phenomenon which lasted during many days. I paid no special attention to it and retired to rest.. clearly reveal the hand which placed them there. began one of the most violent outbursts of Taal on record. This all-consuming fire made the water boil.of eight leagues (34 kilometers.. since he was at the time parish-priest of Sala. had become extinct. from the water By this time it began to dawn.. as at this moment there appeared four excited natives who shouted: "Father. After the conflagration of the deep lake.. O. which appeared in the air. their formation.. 1749. 1749 On august 11. a frightful and all-devouring conflagration that the whole surrounded by region was panic-stricken. During the night of that day the top of the mountain burst with tremendous force from the same crater which since ancient times used to emit fire and rocks. but entirely unaware of what it might portent. an eye-witness. others toward east.. when I found that the number of detonations already exceeded one hundred and still they did not cease. there enormous boulders. the sight lasting until 9 o`clock of the morning. my eyes . let us leave this place! The volcano has burst out and all this noise and racket comes from it!" . I heard something like heavy artillery fire and began to count the reports. The moment when a report was heard. taking it for granted that they came from the ship which was expected to arrive from New Spain (Mexico) and which. It is composed entirely of rocks with an admixture of a diameter of one other materials ejected during the eruption. surrounded by sulphurous flames and smake. on entering Balayan Bay saluted Our Lady of Cayaysay. Buencuchillo. heights . however. which built up an built up an island pestilential island from the bottom of the deep lake. At the latter hour there was felt a furious earthquake which left nothing moveable in its place within the convento. subject to the action of fire ever since mile. The course of the events was this: At about 11 o`clock of the night I had noticed a rather extensive glare over the top of the island. This caused me to rise with some anxienty as to what could be the matter. This forced . without any earth whatever. I myself saw this island from a place near said island having Tanauan. more or less.A. which ascended which ascended . but my doubts were quickly dispelled. cooked the fishes. said island having a from the bottom diameter of one mile.. while there rose several smaller whiffs issued from other openings. The rocks. or 21 miles) there rose such in the air.S. Around 3 o`clock in the morning of the 12th. former springs have ceased to flow and new ones made their appearance. in accordance with Philippine custom. Buencochillo. depopulated that within the same year. at . It rained ashes in considerable quantity and that part of them that remained suspended in the air. they ruined that tract entirely. the greatest recorded in the history of Taal Volcano.me to flee to higher ground. To this very day.the water courses have been altered. such as coconut and betel-nut palms. During these terrible convulsions of the earth fissures opened in the ground amid horrifying roars. said fissures extensing from the northern and northeastern beach of the lake as far as the neighbourhood of the town of Calamba. were so thoroughly ruined and. I likewise saw several houses which formerly. and extensive subsidences have occurred in may places. either miserably fallen. Fr. especially as i noticed that some of the horrid pyramids shooting forth from the water were coming towards the town and place where we were. it sank into the lake. Here as well as elsewhere. the whole country is traveres by fissures. formed a vast cloud which grew so dense as to cause real darkness during hours of broad daylight. but had sunk to such a dregree that the same ladder which once served to ascent into them. the whole shore of Lake Bonbon has been disturbed. though they find themselves buried alive. and with a second earthquake. There were likewise fierce thunderstorms during many days. had their floors raied several yards above the ground. Sala and its surroundings to the northeast of the lake. When we reached that part of the lake`s shore which was known as "tierra destruida" (waste land?). not less fierce than the one shortly predeeding. Of less intense shocks there were more than one hundred. we have likewise a description from the pen of worthy Fr. the former was united with the latter town. 1749. During my flight I saw a great many tall trees. the branches of the trees buried beneath the water can be seen from the distance. and the earth trembled frequently during more than a year. or so deeply buried that their tops were within reach of my hands. consequently. The most remarkable thing about this is that the natives tranquilly continue occupying them. The entire territory of Sala and part of that of Tanauan have been rendered practically uninhabitable . 1754 Of the eruption in 1754. which is north of it. Murillo states in his "Geographica Historica. as well as a portion of the territorry of Tanauan. was now used to descent to them. During the eruption he felt three or four earthquakes so such violence that the roof tiles of the tower were thrown to a distance of more than 10 meters (33 feet). etc" that he was at the time at the Santuary of Antipolo which lies 21 kilometers (13 miles ) almost due east from Manila. . the volcano quite unexpectedly commenced to roar and emit. created the impression of a large river of fire. at about 9 or 10 o'clock in the night. skyhigh. we found ourselves forced to abandon our dwelling. the falling ejecta made the entire island appear to be on fire . After this the volcano calmed down considerably. The paroxysms were accompanied by swaying motions of the ground which caused all the houses of the town to totter. . the fire emitted was quite extraordinary and accompanied by terrifying rumbings. During the night of November 1. 1754. During the following days there appeared in the lake a large quantity of pumice stone which had been ejected by the volcano. during which the volcano vomited forth such masses of fire and .. and it happened that the huge tempest cloud would scarely ever disappear during two months. In fact.. At 7 in the evening of November 28 occurred a new paroxism. and mud in greater quantities than ever before.. of which narrative the following is an abridgement: On May 15. but on this occasion we resolved that the entire population retire to the Sanctuary of Casaysay. Part of these ejecta had also reached the hamlet of Bayuyungan and completely destroyed it. We had already abandoned our habitation and were living in a tower which appeared to offer greater security.. during the night of which the eruption reached such proportions that the falling ejecta made the entire island appear to be on fire. On November 15.the time stationed at Taal.. rocks. and it was even feared that the catastrophe might involve the shoresof the lake. it vomited enormous boulders which rolling down the slopes of the island. though not sufficiently to offer any prospect of tranquility. The volcano continued thus until June 2. ejecting fire. During the night of September 25. and the result was that there was neither tree nor other plant which it did not ruin or crush. only the "Administrator" and myself to remain on the spot. From the said 2d of June until September 25. At daybreak . some weaker buildings collapsed. The strangest thing was. Taal resumed its former fury. sand. the volcano never ceased to eject fire and mud of such bad character that the best ink does not cause so black a stain.. At daybreak of September 26 we found ourselves forced to abandon our dwelling for fear lest the roofs come down upon us under the weigth of ashes and stones which had fallen upon them during that hapless night. there frequently formed thunderstorms.. The depth of the layer of ashes and stones exceeded two "cuartas" (45 centimeters). that within the black column of smake issuing from the volcano ever sinceJune 2. giving to the whole region an aspect as if a devastating conflagration had swept over it.. fell into the lake and caused huge waves [note(added by Saderra Maso): The waves mentioned were most probably due to the earthquake rather than to the falling rocks]. falling back upon the island and rolling down the slopes of the mountain. formidable flames intermixed with glowing rocks which. . The smoke spread very gradually as far as the crater of the volcano. the 29th. The columns of fire and smoke ascended higher than ever before. increasing every moment in volume. From this spot the volcano could be contemplated with a little more serenity of mind. I mounted a horse and retired permanently to the Sanctuary of Caysasay. stopped short when I took him into mine and never uttered a sound while I was carrying him a good piece of the way. a fact which I had failed to notice during the excitement and fear of the flight. all the material ejected during so many months. there being not the smallest portion of the latter which was not covered by the smoke and the glowing rocks and ashes. I. swaying motion. shouted to all those who were still in the town to take to flight and we all ran off in a hurry. I realized that the island had opend in these places and fearing that. much more formidable than the preceeding ones. and setting fire to the whole island. It still continued in full fury. Shortly afterwards the volcano suddenly subsided almost suddenly. carried on by the wind. Now I also observed that the earth was in continuous. Having reached a secure place on elevated ground at a distance of about half a league (2 kilometers) from the town. The cloud of ejecta.. but while we were still trying to persuade ourselves that the tragedy was overand the volcano had exhausted its bowls.. fleeing this living picture of Sodom.ejecta that in my opinion. fleeing this living picture of Sodom. with incessant fear lest the raging waters of the lake overtake us. if a crater should open below the water. On the outskirts of the town.. which were at the moment invading the main part of the town. I took one of the taddlers from her and carried him. we halted in a hut to rest a little and take some food. All this was accompanied by terrific lightning and thunder above. an explosion might follow. as the waves of the angry lake began already to flood the houses nearest to the beach. Moved by pity. therefore. The 29th had dawned calm. otherwise we would have been engulfed on the spot. We left the town. returned on the following day. would not equal the quantity which issued at the time.. exented itself toward west and south with the result that we saw already some stones fall close to our shore. therefore. to the town with the intention of surveying the havoc wrought during the preceeding night. we heard a crash and then I noticed that smoke was rising from the point of the island that looks towards east.. All was horror during those three days. if taken together. and violent shocks of earthquakes underneath. and the little indio who has been wailing while in the arms of his mother.. I came upon a woman who was so exhausted by her burden of two little children and a bundle of clothing that she could proceed no farther. its top was clear and apparently calm. while there were many whiffs issuing from points in the direction of another headland. at about 8 o'clock. We. We left the town. sweeping away everything they encountered. ejecting immense masses of material. The first of December broke somewhat clear and our eyes contemplated everywhere ruins and destruction.Between 3 and 4 o'clock in the afternoon of the said 29th. had it not been for the sinister glare of incessant lightnings.v. and it was almost a miracle that the roof of the church and convento sustained so great a weight. The layer of ashes and mud was more than 5 spans [1. On the 3rd and 4th we had a formidable typhoon. the only remnant of a comfortable dwelling. while new continued to fall on that day and the following. as the safest place. and feared that the turn of the convento and the church of Casasay would come in next. mud. which appeared rather like murky nights and we did not occupy ourselves with anything but see to it that the natives swept off the roofs the large quantities of ashes and stones which kept on accumulating upon them and threatened to bring them down upon us. mud. All the rest. everything was burried beneath a layer of stones. and it really looked as if the world was going to pieces and its axis had been displaced.20 m] thick. burying us alive beneath their weight. the Alcalde. Prior. Foto: I. carrying the ejecta toward Balayan. only here and there could be seen an upright post. the government house. took refuge on the landing of the stairs. The most terrifying circumstance was that the whole sky was shrouded in such darkness that we could not have seen the hand placed before the face. Nor could we use aritifical light as this was extinguished by the wind and copius ashes which penetrated everywhere.d. To all this was added incessant thunder and lightning. and myself . and ashes more than 10 spans [2. as every moment we heard the loud crush of houses collapsing under of stones.Zander Soon afterward I resolved to visit my town of Taal. Both were tile roofs. we 3 Europeans . Black airfall tephra of the 1754 eruption. Shortly before daybreak of december 1 there was a tremendous crash as if the house were coming down on our heads: the roof of the apsis of the chruch had caved in! Not long afterward. But fearing that even these precautions might prove unavailing. Nearly all of them were . the walks of the rope factory. the chests which contained the sacred vestments and vessels. on whichlatter the direction of the wind changed. and ashes piled upon them. the roof of ther kitchen gave away with a thud. with a boat belonging to the alcalde and many of private persons burried in the mud. Fr. the warehouse. After incredible efforts I finally succeeded in unearthing in what had once been the church and sacristy. it began to rain mud and ashes at Caysasay [12 miles from the volcano] and this rain lasted three days.viz.10 m] thick. nothing was left of it except the walls of the church and convento. During the night of the 30th we had not a moment of repose. and thereafter the volcano quieted down.the only ones who were at the time in the Convento of Caysasay. and awaited there whatever God might dispose with regard to us. All was horror those three days. I went downb to the river and found it completely filled up. We caused the bulk of the material to be removed. the mounth of the river Pansipit having been blocked. All the animals of whatever kind have perished. and thus rendered impassable the road which joins the town with Balayan. others by drowning. a measure . swept away by the waves which in these places were so violent that they dug three ditches or channels. The towns of Taal. the lake is rising and invading the towns of Lipa and Tanauan. and so much of Sala as still existed. Thus the beautiful town of Taal remains a deserted wilderness and reduced to the utmost misery. Lipa and Sala is obvious from a comparison of the 1734 Murillo Velarde map (left) and the 1911 map of Saderra Maso (right). being situated within easy reach of it. Taal. too wide and deep to be forded. Buencuchillo. The worst of all is. Lipa. lay around the lake.some carried away by the waves of the lake. which suffered little from the rain of ashes. and Tanauan were on this occasion definitively transferred to their present sites. Tanauan. Thus out of 1200 taxpayers whom Taal contained formerly. The same fate as Taal has befallen the towns of Lipa. and inundating their buildings.[note by the author of this site: the story of the towns that were relocated as a consequence of Taal's activities has been traced by Thomas Hargrove in this book The Mysteries of Taal. and less than one league [4 kilometers] from the volcano. which were the greater and better part. together with Taal. some by being burried. the great prudence of which has been shown by subsequent eruptions. as not a green blade remained anywhere. all the houses have either collapsed under the load of material which had been piled upon them or have diappeared completely. and filled with foul-smelling mud that had ruined or disfigued their contents. both being on the lowest level. The relocation of Tauan. . that. others crushed beneath their collapsing houses. In other parts of the lake shore have likewise opened manycracks and occurred very extensive slides. hardly 150 remain in the poorest and least respectable villages. Twelve persons are known to have perished . These towns. while once it was one of the richest and most flourishing places. the rest by starving. Thus far good Fr. In the villages to the west of the lake. With the aid of some natives of Bauang I likewise recovered some property from among the ruins of the convento.demoloished by the rocks and beams which had fallenupon them. The bulk of the population left this neighbourhood and settled in more distant places. and at the bottom was seen a liquid mass in continual ebullition. Although this outburst failed to reach either the magnitude or the duration of the preceding. it. nevertheless. He says: Formerly the depth seemed immense and unfathomable. this eruption profoundly modified the principal crater. visited the volcano for the first time as late as 1849. In the more immediate vicinity of the volcano there were places where the ground was covered with ashes to a depth exceeding 84 centimeters. 1808. proved disastrous to the neighbouring towns owing to the quantity of ashes and pumice stone ejected on the occasion. the crater had .1808 After 1754 the volcano had no notable eruption untill the middle of march. however. After the eruption the whole aspect was changed. and in more distant localities the fall was proportionally heavy. According to an author who. who had visited the volcano in 1800. 1878. which had completely disappeared in 1907. Zuniga. Its highest point. leaving only an oval depression at the muddy bottom of which were a few outlets for gases. while at the side of this elevation there are seen several wells. In fact. also mud and rocks. Speaking of the impression received when he had reached the brink of the crater. may be inferred likewise from the description given in his work "El Estadismo Filipino" by Fr. 1904. 1874 1878 1904 On July 19. owing to the rains which disintegrate them. from November 12 to 15. took place an eruption of gases and ashes which killed all the live stock which was being raised on Volcano Island and withered or burned the entire vegetation on the western slopes of the crater. is on the eastern rim of the main crater. . 1904. intermittently. descending well-nigh perpendicularly to the water which was of a deep-green color. one of the world's lowest volcanoes. as all its borders looked as if cut with a knife. up to a height of 150 meters. ejected a quantity of ashes sufficient to cover the entire island. The height of the crater walls has diminished and will continue to decrease from day to day. and at the bottom of it a lake only a little smaller. During April. the pond within it had been reduced to one-third and the rest of the crater floor is dry enough to walk over it. 1874. Besides. noises were frequently heard proceeding from the volcano which finally. nearly all the ejecta fell either within the principal crater or on its southeastern and southern slopes. when in reality we saw a vast opening of more than one league in circumference. Taal Volcano Taal Volcano. From the end of October until November 12. one of which is especially remarkable for its size and the material which it contains. he says: We expected to find a deep abyss into which penetrated so little light that it would hardly permit us to distinguish what was in the interior. the floor of the new crater was occupied by a pond of boiling water. The great change which the crater underwent on the occasion of the eruption of 1808. During several months this new opening continued to emit great masses of vapors and. there has formed on the enlarged floor a little hill whose top continually emits smoke. a new crater or outlet was found to have formed near the southeastern inner wall of the principal crater. It would seem that the eruptions issue from this hole. it was reported that Taal was in eruption. As there usually prevailed atmospheric calm during these eruptions.widened. an Augustinian. 311m . The fire causes the latter to rise to a certain height at regular intervals while a monotonous sound is heard. is an island located near the center of Taal Lake in Batangas Province. Above sea level. In December. . namely: Binintiang Malaki. carps. In 1754. To date. about two meters above sea level and 127 sq. Taal Volcano. Based on Taal Volcano's morphological features. has had 33 recorded eruption since its first known outburst in 1572. Tanauan. Ashes spewed out by the volcano reached as far as Manila and covered an area of 2. Taal has about 47 craters or depressions formed either by direct explosive eruptions or by collapse or ground subsience. Taal Lake is known to have originated from the collapse of pre-historic volcanic centers.000 in 1990. Calauit and Mt. The rock formation consists of moderately consolidated ash beds with varying amounts of coarser fragments. Pira-0piraso. were destroyed and were subsequently relocated to their present sites. Despite the hazards posed by the volcano. five are cinder cones and four are maars (shallow to deep circular depressions of volcanic origin).034 lives. Ground water and mobile magma may have either separately or jointly played the pricipal role in determining the nature of Taal eruptions. . characterized as Strombolian with lava fountaining from several active vents and the effussion of molten rocks at the base of crater. Twenty-six of these cones are tuff cones. The island had a population of more than 5. airfalls and effusion of lava. Lake Taal is known for several varieties of milkfish. Its most catastrophic eruptions occured in 1754 and 1911. The 1911 eruption completely devastated the whole Volcano Island and claimed a toll of 1. The underwater topography suggests the presence of about 35 different submerged volcanic landforms. in area. km. the Volcano Island is surrounded by a fresh body of water. however. and Taal. Lipa. Taal Volcano Island has been attracting migrants because of its fertile soil and rich fishing grounds.000 sq. the towns of Sala. The Main Crater occupies the central portion of the Volcano Island.Covering an area of 23 sq. Binintiang Munti. Twelve of Taal Volcano's eruptions occured at this crater from 1749 to 1911. it can be deduced that most of its eruptions were either Phreatic or Phreatomagmatic. There are five other major eruption centers. Taal Volcano is a tuff cone. km. km. Composed of at least 35 cones coalesced by several eruptions. The 35 identified cones were formed by different type of volcanic processes: base surges (rapidly moving mixtures of volcanic debris and steam). maliputo and tawilis. The 1968 and 1969 activities were. then on the borders of Lake Taal. Tabaro Eruption Site. length 25 km (16 mi) Max. the free encyclopedia Taal Lake Satellite image showing Taal Lake with Volcano island within it Location Batangas Coordinates 13°59′13″N 121°00′44″ECoordinates: 13°59′13″N 121°00′44″E Lake type Caldera lake Primary outflows Pansipit River Basincountries Philippines Max. width 18 km (11 mi) .Taal Lake From Wikipedia. It is the country's third largest lake after Laguna de Bay and Lake Lanao. on the island of Luzon in the Philippines. There is a crater lake on Volcano Island.Surface area 234. the location of Taal Volcano's historical eruptions and responsible for the lake's sulfuric content. Not to be confused with Lake Taal in Inner Mongolia in China. and it in turn contains its own small island.1 Introduction of a non-native fish 3.2 Fish kill 4 Tourism 5 Gallery 6 See also . Contents [hide] 1 Protected area and management 2 History 3 Ecology o o 3. which is located on Luzon Island. Vulcan Point. Lipa City.000 and 100.Cuenca. Balete. San Nicolas. Mataas na Kahoy. Tanauan City. lies near the center of the lake. and Agoncillo 1 Shore length is not a well-defined measure. That crater lake is the world's largest lake on an island in a lake on an island.2 km2 (90.000 years ago. Taal Lake is a freshwater lake in the province of Batangas. a large volcanic calderaformed by very large eruptions between 500. Santa Teresita. which is in Lake Taal. The lake fills Taal Caldera.Laurel. Volcano Island. Alitagtag.4 sq mi) Shore length1 115 km (71 mi) Surface elevation 5 m (16 ft) Islands Volcano Island Settlements Talisay. 7 References 8 External links [edit]Protected area and management The Taal Lake basin was first declared as a national park. Eruptions has also buried numerous lakeside towns by volcanic ash and submerged by rising lake waters. Taal Lake's sole connection to the sea narrowed down into its sole draining river. the area was reestablished as theTaal Volcano Protected Landscape by Proc. 906 on October 16. otherwise known as the National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) Act of 1992. Sala. by Proclamation no. 235 on July 22. 1996. Several centuries of precipitation have diluted the lake's once saline waters into freshwater.[2] The protected area is managed by a Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) and has a Chief Operating Officer called a Protected Area Superintendent. [edit]History Philippines and Taal Lake Taal Lake was once just an arm of Balayan Bay. after a series of major eruptions in the 18th century. Presently. the Taal Volcano National Park. Bauan and Tanauan were formerly located along Taal Lake. the Pansipit River. only three towns are on the . However. 1967 covering 62.930 acres). Lipa.[1] Under Republic Act 7586. Taal.292 hectares (153. A Management Plan was crafted and approved by the PAMB in 2009 and now serves as the blueprint for lake conservation. 25-million (US$1=₱41) loss of culturedtilapia in the villages of Leviste and Balakilong in Laurel and in Barangay Aya and Barangay Quiling in Talisay. the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources announced a fish kill of 750 metric tons. Hydrophis semperi. Carcharhinus leucas. [edit]Introduction of a non-native fish Jaguar guapote (Parachromis managuensis). and favorable warm environment. Caranx ignobilis. Bull sharks. visitors are treated to a stunning view of the lake and its surroundings. was found illegally introduced into the lake. These fishes. Its presence could seriously affect the native fish population. Taal Lake is also home to one of the world's rarest sea snakes. controversy ensued when the Korean firm Jung Ang Interventure was given clearance to build a health spa on Volcano Island itself along the lake's edge.000 maliputo fishes (₱ 230. used to be part of the lake's once-diverse ecosystem. are locally called maliputo. Toxic sulfur and high level ofhydrogen sulfide in Ambulong while low dissolved oxygen caused the deaths. a freshwater sardine.[3] [edit]Ecology Because the lake was until recently connected to the sea. which lowered the oxygen levels on the lake. This particular species is only one of two "true" sea snake species that are known to live entirely in freshwater.000) also died at Quiling.[7][8] . several government officials expressed their disapproval of the construction project. The alien fish could proliferate in all areas of lake because of the abundant aquatic vegetation which they use for spawning and feeding. plenty of natural food. also found in the Pansipit River. Its most popular endemic species is the overharvested tawilis. The lake has a freshwater-adapted population of trevally. 2011. After crossing the lake. In mid-2007. 6.[6] [edit]Tourism Regular tours of the lake are available to tourists. Remnants of the old lakeside towns like buildings and walls are reported to be seen under the lake's waters. it is home to many endemic species that have evolved and adapted to the desalination of the lake's waters. a predatory piscivore. Over the course of the next few weeks.[5] On May 30. According to the scientists. During their trip up and down the mountain. the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources announced that a fish kill at Taal Lake (January 2 to 4) caused the 50 metric tons or ₱ 3. [4] [edit]Fish kill On January 5. 2008. visitors travel to the top of Volcano Island on horseback. a carnivorous fish that primarily eats other fishes.lake's shore. the onset of the rainy season brought a sudden drop on the water temperature. but they were exterminated by the locals in the 1930s. the Korean company's permit was permanently revoked by the DENR in early July 2007. [9] Because of the unpopular public reaction to the project. rendering them incapable of pursuing further construction on the island until they secure other necessary permits.[10] .On June 28. the DENR suspended the Korean firm's environmental clearance certificate.