Philippine Cities Covered in Volcanic Smoke

The Taal Volcano on Luzon Island in the Philippines has erupted, releasing smoke that enveloped nearby cities and led to a decline in air quality and visibility. Schools in several areas, including Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, and Manila, suspended classes, while residents in the vicinity of the volcano were advised to stay indoors. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology issued a Level 1 alert due to the dispersion of volcanic gases. The aviation authority cautioned pilots against flying near the volcano due to the risk of sudden explosions. Taal Volcano, known as one of the country’s most active, previously erupted in January 2020, prompting the evacuation of over 100,000 people as it emitted ash and smoke up to 15 kilometers into the sky.