Hecla Provides Update on Fall of Ground at the Lucky Friday Operation

Hecla Mining Company HL provides an update on the localized fall of ground in a stope which occurred at its Lucky Friday mine in Northern Idaho on April 15, 2011. An employee is unaccounted for. "Our current focus is 100% directed to rescuing the miner and ensuring the safety of the rescue team," said Phil Baker, President and Chief Executive Officer. "Larry Marek is an experienced miner and has been with Hecla for 12 years. We deeply sympathize with the family, employees and overall situation and are doing all that is possible to progress with rescue operations in a safe and expedited manner. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones." The Lucky Friday mine has ceased mining to focus on rescue operations. Hecla does not know how long the rescue efforts will continue or if it will impact the 2011 production guidance.