Cyanide Detected Near Mine Accident Site in YukonCyanide Detected Near Mine Accident Site in Yukon Yukon officials have confirmed the presence of cyanide in a waterway near the site of a recent mining accident. The incident occurred at the Mount Polley mine, approximately 80 kilometers northeast of Williams Lake, British Columbia. On August 4th, a tailings dam at the mine breached, releasing approximately 24 million cubic meters of water and sediment into the surrounding area. The spill contaminated Hazeltine Creek and Quesnel Lake, raising concerns about environmental damage and potential health risks. Subsequent testing by Yukon officials has now detected cyanide in the Yukon River, approximately 35 kilometers downstream from the mine site. The levels of cyanide are considered to be low, but officials are monitoring the situation closely. Cyanide is a toxic chemical that can be fatal to humans and wildlife if ingested in large amounts. It is used in gold mining to separate gold from other minerals. The Mount Polley mine is operated by Imperial Metals Corp. The company has expressed regret over the accident and pledged to cooperate with authorities to clean up the spill and mitigate its environmental impact. Yukon officials are advising residents and visitors to avoid swimming or drinking water from the Yukon River in the affected area. They are also monitoring the situation and will provide updates as they become available.
Yukon officials confirm cyanide in waterway near mine accident siteCBC.ca
