<article><p class="lead">Rio Tinto has declared force majeure on shipments of copper cathode from its Kennecott operation in Utah after an earthquake in March.</p><p>The declaration was made as the Utah facility continues to reopen after being hit by a <a href="https://direct.argusmedia.com/newsandanalysis/article/2088390?keywords=Earthquake">5.7 magnitude earthquake</a> on 18 March. </p><p>The facility's mine, concentrator and tailings have resumed operations. </p><p>"We are working to restart Kennecott's smelter after the emergency shutdown in response to the earthquake and with our customers to minimize any disruption in supply," Rio Tinto told <i>Argus</i> today.</p><p>Kennecott accounts for approximately 11pc of copper production in the US, according to Rio Tinto. </p><p class="bylines"><i>By Andrew Saucer</i></p></article>
