An activists covered in mud poses with a sign that reads "Vale assassin" during a demonstration on the front steps of Sao Paulo's Cathedral, Brazil, Friday, Feb. 1, 2019. (AP Photo/Victor R. Caivano)
February 06, 2019 - 10:01 AM
RIO DE JANEIRO - Authorities in Brazil say the death toll from a dam collapse in the city of Brumadinho has risen to 150.
Minas Gerais state civil defence spokesman Lt. Col. Flavio Godinho said Wednesday that 182 people are still listed as missing.
No one has been found alive since Jan. 26, the day after a large reservoir containing mining waste was breached.
But the state fire department in charge of search-and-rescue efforts denied suggestions that its mission was coming to an end.
The reddish-brown mud that broke the dam destroyed everything in its ensuing path. It is now moving down the Paraopeba River and has contaminated water resources used by dozens of municipalities.
A top Brazilian institute warned Tuesday of a possible health crisis if authorities did not help rural communities.
News from © The Associated Press, 2019