Volcanic smog covered Taal Volcano in the Philippines after it showed increased seismic activity over the weekend.

Footage shows the volcanic island obscured by the persistent noxious fumes as steam continues to pour out of the crater in Batangas province on June 5.

Flights today were prohibited from operating 10,000 feet from the volcano's summit due to the threat of phreatic eruptions, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines said.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said in a June 4 report that the 'increased degassing activity' from the volcano produced voluminous steam-rich plumes rising to 3,000 metres above the Taal Volcano Island.

PHIVOLCS said: 'Volcanic smog was reported this morning by residents of the municipalities of Balete, Laurel, and Agoncillo, Batangas.

'A total of 5,831 tonnes per day of volcanic sulfur dioxide or SO2 gas emission from the Taal Main Crater was recorded last 1 June, which was higher than last month's average of 3,556 tonnes per day.'

Pregnant women, children, and the elderly, especially those with underlying health conditions, were advised to stay indoors as the fumes were hazardous to their health.

Speaking to local media, PHIVOLCS director Dr. Teresito Bacolcol said: 'We remind residents to limit their outdoor activities as much as possible. They have to wear masks if they go outside.

'As of now, Taal Volcano is still under Alert Level 1. It might lead to a volcanic eruption, but it might not. Under Alert Level 1, there is the possibility of a sudden explosion - steam or phreatic explosion. That's why we are closely monitoring the volcano.'

Alert Level 1 is still hoisted over the volcano on June 5.

According to PHIVOLCS, Alert Level 1 indicates 'low level of volcanic unrest'. It warned there may be steam-driven or gas-driven explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas.