U.S. coal mining deaths 1900-2023
In 2023 there were nine occupational fatalities in the United States coal mining industry, among a total of 68,631 U.S. coal miners. Within the last two centuries, the largest number of occupational fatalities in the United States coal mining industry was registered in 1910 when 2,821 coal miners died. Since then, this figure has reduced significantly.
Which was the deadliest coal mining disaster of U.S. history?
Coal extraction has been active in the U.S. since the 18th century. As an exploitation activity, it has been related to several occupational disasters. The most fatal coal mining accident recorded in U.S. history happened in 1907 in West Virginia: the Monongah mine disaster. It resulted in the death of 362 workers, after an explosion happened in mines six and eight.
Where is coal produced the most in the U.S.?
Environmental concerns and shifting demand have progressively declined coal production in the U.S. in recent years. This is also reflected in the decreasing number of active coal mines in the country over the last two decades. Nevertheless, the production of coal in U.S. states is still significant. For instance, Wyoming was by far the leading coal-producing state in the country in 2023, followed by other key states West Virginia and Pennsylvania.
