The country was shaken by the eruption of Taal volcano last Sunday, 12 January 2020, after four decades of deep slumber.
It was the year 1977 when the volcano last erupted before the Sunday incident.
The magestic and once peaceful volcano has now left a huge footprint of emptiness in Batangas.
Piles and piles of ashes from the volcanic eruption has covered parts of the province, destroying livelihoods, shelters, and killing countless animals left by their owners.
Volcanic ash created ashfalls and due to 111 kph southerlies blowing northward has reached parts of Central and Northern Luzon.
Such incident created more alarm.
Volcanic ash is dangerous.
It is a mixture of rock, mineral, and glass which are very hard to notice due to their microscopic sizes, less than 2 millimeters in diameter.
Due to its size, it can easily be inhaled deep into the lungs that may cause lung diseases, together with nose and throat irritation.
Volcanic ash can also irritate the skin and the eyes.
During an ash fall, it is very important to wear dust mask when outside.
The most effective mask for filtering 95 percent of airborne particles is the N95 filtering facepiece.
It is also important to wear googles in order to avoid eye irritation.
As much as possible, refrain from driving during ashfall for it can lessen visibility.
If an emergency occurs and driving is needed, always remember to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you.
If there is no need to evacuate from your area, it is always safer to stay at home.
Sources:
- ABS-CBN News (2020)
- National Geographic (2020)
- National Geographic Encyclopedia
- International Volcanic Health Hazard Network
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
