Summary
Southern Copper Corporation (SCCO) filed an 8-K on February 11, 2019, reporting on significant events stemming from unprecedented rainfall in southern Peru. The Peruvian government declared a state of emergency in key regions, leading to severe damage from landslides. Unfortunately, one SCCO employee disappeared in a landslide near the Quebrada Honda tailings dam. In response, SCCO temporarily halted production at its Cuajone and Toquepala operations as a precautionary measure. The company has asserted the integrity of its Quebrada Honda tailings dam, with no anticipated spills. SCCO is cooperating fully with the Peruvian Environmental Agency's assessment and is providing substantial humanitarian and logistical support to affected local communities, including machinery, water, and supplies, highlighting the severity of the natural disaster impacting the region.
Key Highlights
- 1Unprecedented rainfall in southern Peru led to a government-declared state of emergency.
- 2Massive landslides caused significant damage in Tacna, Moquegua, and Arequipa.
- 3One SCCO employee is missing following a landslide near the Quebrada Honda tailings dam.
- 4SCCO temporarily suspended production at Cuajone and Toquepala operations as a safety precaution.
- 5The company confirms the integrity of the Quebrada Honda tailings dam with no expected spills.
- 6SCCO is cooperating with the Peruvian Environmental Agency (OEFA) in its assessment.
- 7The company is providing significant aid (machinery, water, supplies) to affected local communities.