Nexa suspends operations at Vazante mine

Brazilian miner Nexa Resources has suspended operations at its Vazante underground asset in Minas Gerais state, after it detected unusual ground displacements. 

The Vazante operation comprises the Vazante and Extremo Norte assets and both are zinc-lead-silver mines.

"During a regular inspection at the Extremo Norte mine, it was identified that the area around the main access and the escape route presented above-normal ground displacements," the company said in a statement. 

"The Extremo Norte mine requires dewatering the aquifer for its operation, which leads to depressurization and may cause local disturbances in the rock mass around the mine. As a preventive measure, activities in this area have been temporarily suspended. No work accidents or environmental impacts have been reported," it added.

While Vazante’s first-quarter figures should not be affected as the production decrease will be mitigated with the help of Extremo Norte, annual output will fall because of the suspension. 

"Vazante’s 2021 zinc production guidance has been revised to 130,000-140,000t versus 140,000-150,000t. Zinc average grade is expected to decrease to 9.88% compared to a previous estimate of 10.6% for the year. The lead range of 1,000-15,00t and silver production range of 345,000-395,000oz remain unchanged. Cash cost guidance is under review," the company said.