Phivolcs said Wednesday volcanic smog from the Taal Volcano has reached Metro Manila and Central Luzon provinces, as it called on the public to take extra precaution.
The vog has mostly spread to Batangas, Laguna, Cavite, Rizal, Bulacan, Pampanga, Bataan, Zambales Provinces after steam and sulfur dioxide spweded by Taal reached a height of 20 kilometers above sea level.
"In view of the scientific data from the above satellite platforms, the DOST-PHIVOLCS stands to acknowledge evidence of the actual wider extents that volcanic SO2 have actually spread over the NCR and adjoining provinces and gives credence to the many observations that the public have communicated," it said.
For reference, Taal is some 326 kilometers away from the northern tip of Zambales, westernmost province of Central Luzon.
The volcano, located 80 kilometers south of the capital, recorded the highest SO2 emission at 14,326 tons on Monday.
How to protect yourself against smog
Those living near Taal Volcano area are told to wear N95 masks or medical-grade face masks to protect themselves against the volcanic smog or vog.
The elderly, pregnant women, children, and those who have asthma or other health conditions are told to avoid outdoor activities, stay indoors and keep the windows and doors closed to block out the vog.
Aside from wearing N95 masks, residents should drink plenty of water to reduce throat irritation.
The Taal Volcano remains under Alert Level 2, indicating increased unrest. It means sudden explosion, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall threaten nearby areas.