Boats set sail as smog from the Taal Volcano clouded a lake in the Philippines.

Footage shows vessels setting out from the shore across the volcano's main crater in Batangas province early Thursday morning.

Residents and local fishermen have lamented the volcanic smog blanketing the area, saying the fumes were affecting their health and livelihoods.

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.'
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said Alert Level 1 indicating 'low levels of unrest' was hoisted over the volcano. It warned there may be steam-driven or gas-driven explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas.