Warning Against Volcanic Ash

In the early afternoon of Sunday, January 12, 2020, Taal volcano started to spew out smoke and later on volcanic chemicals and materials from its many craters. The eruption had fast-escalated to level 4, the highest being level 5. Earthquakes numbering to hundreds were recorded and ash fall in the form of rains that carried acidic chemicals and mud churned out by the volcano had resulted to zero visibility, mud-covered streets – destroying property and livestock, not to mention pets – acutely transforming the municipalities of Agoncillo, Laurel, Talisay, Lemery, San Nicolas, Taal, and other nearby Batangas municipalities, in terms of proximity to Taal volcano, into “ghost towns.” The whole of Batangas province was declared in a state of calamity. Meanwhile our Department of Health (DOH) issued warning against the hazardous effects of ash fall.

Ash fall

Ash fall is a term referred to when a volcano erupts and starts to emit – in the form of a blast – hazardous blast materials, chemicals, and compounds, into the atmosphere. With the toxic fumes and gases, eruption carry microscopic materials, powder-size, sand-size hazardous objects, stones, rocks, and boulders, thus making the natural event, an imminent danger to persons and property.

Health effects of ash fall

1. Nose and throat irritation, allergy, and infection.

2. Respiratory condition that can result to coughing, bronchitis, asthma, tuberculosis, bacteria and fungus lung infection, asbestosis, and pneumonia.

3. Difficulty and discomfort in breathing.

4. Eye irritation and infection (like conjunctivitis or sore eyes).

5. Skin irritation, skin allergies, and other skin problems including infections coming from microscopic cuts and wounds and trauma from hazardous chemicals in volcanic dust.

6. Injuries from falling debris and collapsed roofs and houses, slippery roads, and poor visibility.

Health tips in coping with ash fall

1. Avoid or minimize exposure to volcanic ash. Stay indoors whenever possible.

2. Keep doors and windows closed.

3. Use damp curtains, blankets, and curtains to avoid infiltration of volcanic dust.

4. Cover your nose and mouth with face mask (DOH recommends N95 mask. If not available, use ordinary surgical mask or wet face towel (commonly referred to as “bimpo” to serve the purpose).

5. Wear goggles or eyeglasses to protect your eyes from irritation.

6. Keep pets in close shelter.

7. Clear your roof of ash. Ash easily turns to mud. Mud on the roof can be heavy resulting to roof collapse.

8. Observe traffic rules, notifications, and advisory for road safety. Bring flashlight.