Good day!
With the prevalent and trending issue concerning Taal Volcano and the Vog, and the recent update concerning the fact that it isn't vog that had been going on in Manila... well, okay, let me explain it on the natural phenomena called as "weather".
First of all, what causes this hazy or misty conditions right now? It is caused by cold air being underneath warmer air. The more altitudes gained, the colder air should be. However, due to the colder months, surface temperature tends to be colder than atmospheric temperature. Hence, it causes "haze".
So, what's with the issue concerning vog. It is actually co-related to haze. It could happen because of the toxic gases rising. Cold and warm air are attracted to one another like magnets. Now, all those particles are trapped in the atmosphere, causing hazy conditions.
Then, is Metro Manila affected by this vog? It depends on the direction of the wind. By now, it appears not to. Wind, as per METAR by NAIA (RPLL), which had a coverage area of 5-10 NM (roughly until Antipolo, RIzal and Ternate, Cavite) had been variable or changing. According to PHIVOLCs, wind around Taal had been heading west and south, so not towards Manila.
So, is it dangerous? Even haze alone is dangerous.
1. Wear face masks!
2. If you're driving, slow down. Why? Haze makes everything appear too far when they are actually way too close.
3. Stay indoors, if some activities outside aren't important.
Keep safe everyone! Because, even if the vog clears away, haze will be prevalent as long as the months grow colder.
A "health" and much more weather information.
-Capt. J
