Dam burst in Brazil

A dam retaining wastewater from an iron mine in Minas Gerais state in southeastern Brazil broke on Nov. 6, spilling hundreds of millions of gallons of water and mud into local valleys. At least 13 people were killed and more than 500 homes were destroyed. Additionally, the water is believed to have contained toxins from the mining operation. 

Flooding occurred up to four miles away from the dam site. The water eventually entered the Rio Doce before reaching the Atlantic Ocean.

Two other dams located at the same mine were damaged during this incident and, as of press time, were in danger of collapsing.