2010 Copiapó mining accident facts for kids

The 2010 Copiapó mining accident was a big event that happened on August 5, 2010. A mine called San José, which dug for copper and gold near Copiapó, Chile, suddenly collapsed. This trapped 33 miners deep underground, about 700 meters (2,300 feet) down.

The Mine of San José during the rescue efforts, on August 10, 2010.

About the San José Mine

The San José Mine (also known as Mina San José) is located about 45 kilometers (28 miles) north of Copiapó. This area is in the Region of Atacama in Chile. The miners were trapped very deep, around 700 meters (2,300 feet) below the surface. They were also about 5 kilometers (3 miles) from the mine's entrance.

Mine Safety Concerns

This mine had experienced accidents before, and one person had even died there. A report from the Chilean Government in July 2010 stated that the mine owners had not properly strengthened the mine's roof. This lack of support caused the roof to collapse earlier. There was discussion about why the mine was not closed down sooner, given these safety issues.

The Rescue Mission

After the collapse, a huge rescue effort began to save the trapped miners. People from all over the world watched and hoped for their safe return.

First Miner Rescued

On October 13, 2010, Florencio Ávalos became the first miner to be brought back to the surface. His rescue was a moment of great joy and relief for everyone. The rescue operation continued until all 33 miners were safely brought out.

Related pages

• 2006 Copiapó mining accident
• 2010 Cauquenes earthquake
• 2010 Pichilemu earthquake

Images for kids

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  The San José mine is approximately at the center of this satellite image

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  Piñera holds the message sent by the miners alongside Mining Minister Golborne (red jacket, blue shirt)

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  First image captured by a video camera lowered down the borehole

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  Mass for waiting family members

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  Diagram of the rescue capsule "Fénix" class and the miner equipment used in the Copiapó accident of 2010 rescue.

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  Manuel González, the first rescuer, preparing to descend

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  Urzúa celebrates with Piñera

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  Six rescuers with sign reading Mision Cumplida CHILE ("Mission accomplished CHILE")

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  Piñera and his wife present a souvenir rock from the mine to Elizabeth II on 18 October 2010.

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  Piñera visiting the miners in Copiapó Hospital

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  Los 33 at the Presidential Palace on 24 October 2010

See also

In Spanish: Rescate de la mina San José para niños