Thousands are being evacuated.
A massive volcanic eruption outside Manila, the capital the Philippines, has left thousands being evacuated, according to the Associated Press.
Steam, ash, and pebbles were shot 6 to 9 miles into the sky while lightning struck the surrounding area.
The Taal Volcano is located 37 miles south Manila. The 6,000 locals who share the island with the volcano and tens thousands more who inhabit nearby coastal towns have all been evacuated.
“We have asked people in high-risk areas, including the volcano island, to evacuate now ahead a possible hazardous eruption,” Renato Solidum, head the Philippine Institute Volcanology and Seismology, said.
The Institute increased the danger level Taal Volcano to level 4 on Sunday, meaning that “a hazardous eruption may happen within hours or days.” Reaching level 5, the highest level, would mean “hazardous eruption is underway and could affect a larger area,” according to the AP.
So far, there have been no reports injuries.
Multiple videos and pictures have been posted to social media the incident. Check some them out below.