Dam collapse in Brazil

An earthen dam holding back mining-waste water collapsed on Jan. 25 in Minas Gerais state, southern Brazil, flooding the surrounding countryside. At press time, at least 110 people were confirmed dead, with more than 200 people still missing and presumed dead. Investigations into the dam's failure were ongoing.

The iron mine is owned and operated by Brazil's largest mining company, Vale. Vale stated that the dam had met the guidelines of safety engineers.