Tailings Dam Failure – Cadia Mine in NSW Australia

On March 9, 2018 a “limited breach” of the tailings dam at the North Tailings Facility of the Cadia Mine tailings impoundment occurred in New South Wales, Australia.  The area of the failure is approximately 270 m across, with a back-scarp of about 100 m.  The runout was about 370 m.  All things considered, it could have been worse.  The mine owner, Newcrest Mining Limited, has ceased mining operations while they deal with the issue, and has begun radar monitoring.  No additional movement had been detected as of last week.  More information can be found in the briefing given to shareholders, and in the initial press release.  Image: Newcrest Mining Limited