By Ma. Cristina Arayata
MANILA – The head of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said Wednesday there is no indication that the grassfire monitored in Taal Volcano Island (TVI) on April 1 was caused by volcanic activity.
Phivolcs said the grassfire in the southwest portion of TVI initially spread at 11:24 a.m. on April 1 and ended at 2 a.m. on April 2.
“It was possibly caused by natural ignition due to dry weather. It could also be caused by people, of someone’s cigarette butt, for example,” Phivolcs Director Teresito Bacolcol told the Philippine News Agency in an interview.
The San Nicolas MDRRMO is currently investigating the incident, he added.
Several instances could trigger a grassfire around or near an active volcano.
One is when the weather is too hot and there is no rainfall.
Cigarettes, bonfires, and any open flame could also cause the grassfire, Bacolcol said.
In more active volcanoes, the release of hot gas and lava could also trigger a grassfire.
“In isolated cases, lightning could cause grassfire,” Bacolcol said.
He reminded the public that TVI is a permanent danger zone, and thus entry into this area is prohibited.
“Avoid getting near areas where there is fire. Wear a face mask if the smoke blends with the air and reaches crowded places,” he said.
The public is also advised not to throw or leave flammables in dry areas surrounding the volcano.
They are also encouraged to report to local authorities if a fire was observed.
Meanwhile, Bacolcol said the IP camera at the Volcano Taal Binintiang Munti Observation Station became blurry on Tuesday, probably because of heat from the grassfire.
As of Wednesday, the camera is back to normal and no instrument at the station was affected, he said. (PNA)
