June 2, 2026 - On November 8, 2025, a section foreman died after a mine was inundated with water from an adjacent abandoned mine. The foreman was found on November 13, 2025.

Best Practices:

• Determine the location of abandoned mine workings using signed maps and local sources. Abandoned mines are a major flood hazard.
• Provide sufficient barrier pillars. Evaluate interburden thickness and compare mine surveys from a common baseline.
• Use directional, long-hole drilling to ensure adequate barriers around mining areas.
• If necessary, submit permits for "operations under water."

Miners and mine operators can find safety and health information on MSHA.gov.