MELBOURNE, Nov 13 (Reuters) - The death toll from the iron ore mine dam disaster in Brazil has risen to nine, while 19 people remain missing, BHP Billiton BHP.AX BLT.L , a co-owner of the mine said on Friday.
BHP said tailings from the dam that burst more than a week ago extend 440 kilometres downstream, affecting 11 communities, with water quality being closely monitored in three towns.
The mine, operated by Samarco, a joint venture of BHP and Brazil's Vale VALE5.SA has been closed since the incident and the government has suspended Samarco's operating license.
"BHP Billiton's immediate priority is the welfare of the Samarco workforce and the community," the company reiterated on Friday.