Flood-Induced Salt Dissolution Compromises Praid Mine Stability

Heavy rainfall in Harghita County, Romania, has resulted in severe flooding, placing the historic Praid salt mine under critical threat. Authorities have reported uncontrollable water inflow into the mine due to the overflowing Corund stream, which has been exacerbated by drainage system failures. The mine, located approximately 120 meters underground, functions not only as an active resource site but also as a medical and tourist facility featuring recreational infrastructure.

Initial assessments indicate that when water contacts salt, it causes rapid dissolution, potentially leading to structural voids. Although immediate mine-wide destabilization is not anticipated, officials caution that prolonged exposure could lead to significant material degradation over time. To control the situation, two transverse dams were constructed across the stream, and high-capacity water removal systems were deployed. However, the increased flow—reported to be 100 times higher than usual—has limited the effectiveness of these interventions.

In response, the Romanian government has extended support and funding to the region. Technical teams have withdrawn personnel and equipment from the affected zones, and access to the mine platform has been restricted. A detailed structural evaluation is planned before operations or tourism activities resume. Emergency crews continue monitoring water levels, and precautionary measures have been initiated in surrounding regions affected by similar hydrological risks.

Video footage of the severe flooding at the Romania's historic Praid salt mine is given below.