# Minera Las Cenizas tailings spill in Chile

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/minera-las-cenizas-tailings-spill-in-chile
> Updated: 2026-09-11T07:26:33.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

In late July 2026, a discharge of tailings from the Tranque 4 facility owned by Minera Las Cenizas disrupted the water supply for approximately 700 residents in Peñablanca, Chile. Following heavy rainfall, a mixture of sediment and turbid water flowed through the Chinchorro ravine into the La Ligua River.

Company officials characterized the event as a “despiche”, describing it as a controlled discharge intended to manage pressure and prevent structural damage to the facility walls. The maneuver was reportedly coordinated with Sernageomin. 

The Superintendencia del Medio Ambiente (SMA) has launched an investigation into the incident, noting previous infractions related to the volume and dimensions of recovery water pools at the thickening plant. This event follows a similar occurrence in June 2024 that resulted in significant fines from the Dirección General de Aguas.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-11: Minera Las Cenizas supports community projects in Taltal

Minera Las Cenizas is engaging with communities in Taltal, Chile, to support 2026 competitive fund applications for local infrastructure, equipment, and entrepreneurship projects.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/minera-las-cenizas-supports-community-projects-in-taltal

### 2026-08-23: Minera Las Cenizas tailings spill disrupts water supply in Peñablanca

Residents of Peñablanca, Chile, are without well water after a tailings discharge from Minera Las Cenizas contaminated local water sources following heavy rains.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/minera-las-cenizas-tailings-spill-disrupts-water-supply-in-peablanca

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Cite as: Minera Las Cenizas tailings spill in Chile. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/minera-las-cenizas-tailings-spill-in-chile