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Vale’s Reservoir Overflow Caused Flooding at CSN, Evacuated Employees, and Disrupted Water Collection in Ouro Preto.
An overflow from a reservoir recorded early on Sunday (01/25) caused flooding at CSN, halted industrial operations, and interrupted water collection in the Pires district, on the border between Ouro Preto and Congonhas, in the Central Region of Minas Gerais.
The incident involved Vale’s Reservoir, which overflowed after the increase in water volume, affected structures of the Companhia Siderúrgica Nacional, led to the evacuation of about 200 workers, and mobilized the state Civil Defense.
Water Affected Industrial Structures and Halted Activities
The flooding at CSN directly reached the administrative office, three operational workshops, and the company’s warehouse.
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According to reports from residents and employees, the water level reached approximately 1.5 meters in some areas, damaging equipment, materials, and hindering internal circulation.
Moreover, the interruption of water collection affected the unit’s operation and forced a temporary suspension of industrial activities.
Despite the risky situation faced by workers, no one was injured.
Workers Evacuated and People Stranded
With the rapid advancement of the water, the company proactively evacuated around 200 workers.
Meanwhile, some employees remained stranded for about an hour until the situation was under control, according to information gathered on-site.
The teams followed industrial safety protocols during the evacuation, which prevented more serious consequences.
Still, the episode raised concerns about reservoir management and the risks associated with extreme weather events.
Civil Defense Monitors the Case in Ouro Preto
The Civil Defense of Minas Gerais confirmed the occurrence and sent a technical team to the affected area.
The agency intends to assess the damages, monitor potential residual risks, and ensure the safety of facilities and workers.
According to Civil Defense, technicians will analyze the reservoir overflow together with factors such as weather conditions and the local water management system’s containment capacity.
Emergency Cleanup and Environmental Assessment
Teams from the Companhia Siderúrgica Nacional immediately began cleanup and mud removal in the affected areas.
However, the company reported that it is awaiting environmental oversight to conduct a more detailed technical assessment of the flooding’s impacts.
This analysis should indicate potential damages to the soil, water, and industrial structures, in addition to guiding corrective and preventive measures.
Vale’s Reservoir in the Spotlight
Vale’s Reservoir, located in the Pires district, became the focus of investigations.
Although the reservoir is not classified as a tailings dam, the overflow raised questions about its drainage capacity and the management of accumulated water volume.
Experts emphasize that episodes of heavy rain, increasingly frequent, require constant reviews of containment systems, especially in regions with a strong industrial and mining presence.
Regional Impacts and Alert for New Episodes
The episode reignites the debate on water security and infrastructure in the Ouro Preto region, where industrial activities coexist with urban areas and sensitive water resources.
Furthermore, residents report concerns about new overflows during periods of heavier rainfall.
Meanwhile, authorities maintain monitoring of the situation to prevent further incidents.
After the completion of technical inspections, the responsible agencies are expected to release additional information on responsibilities, environmental impacts, and preventive measures.
See more at: Vale’s Structure Breaks in Ouro Preto, and Mud Affects Buildings
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