Lake Peigneur

Lake Peigneur is a lake in southern Louisiana, United States, notable for a major 1980 industrial accident when drilling pierced an underground salt mine. The event dramatically altered the lake’s hydrology and drew international attention.

The lake is used today for recreational boating and fishing; marinas and boat access are present along its shoreline. The 1980 incident is the lake’s principal point of interest for most visitors and researchers.

The 1980 collapse was caused when a Texaco drilling rig accidentally punctured a working salt mine operated by Diamond Crystal Salt Company, causing a large portion of the lake to drain into the mine and creating a powerful whirlpool that drew in equipment and reversed nearby canal flow. The mine and surrounding infrastructure were heavily affected and the event prompted investigations into mining and drilling safety.

Lake Peigneur sits in coastal Louisiana, in a low-lying landscape of bayous and canals. It lies near local towns and agricultural areas in the region and connects to nearby waterways via the Delcambre Canal.

• 1980 drilling disaster: A 1980 drilling accident punctured an underground salt mine, producing a dramatic whirlpool and temporarily reversing the outflow of the Delcambre Canal.
• Current use: After the incident the lake refilled and is used for boating and fishing today.