MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) maintained the Alert Level 2 hoisted over Taal Volcano, as 20 volcanic earthquakes were recorded during the past 24 hours.

Alert 2 status means present activities could eventually lead to an eruption, according to Phivolcs.

Phivolcs said there was a noticeable increase in seismic activity of the volcano. Water temperature at the Main Crater Lake also slightly increased from 29.8°C to 30.1°C.

Phivolcs advised the public to keep away from the Main Crater, Daang Kastila Trail and Mt. Tabaro because sudden hazardous steam-driven explosions may occur and high concentrations of toxic gases may accumulate.