Taal eruption. Jan 30, 1911 - Luzon, Philippines. On Luzon the destruction was complete. The eruption created a downward blast that forced hot steam and gases down the slopes of the volcano, accompanied by a shower of scalding hot mud and sand, which contributed to so much loss of life and destruction of property. A reported 1,335 lives were lost (although it is known more perished than official records show), and an area of 230 sq km was destroyed with ash falling over an area of 2,000 sq…