King Tutankhamun Tomb Faces Serious Collapse Risk From Cracks Water Damage

Tutankhamun's tomb, a 3,300-year-old archaeological treasure located in Egypt's Valley of the Kings, is facing a serious threat of collapse due to structural damage including cracks, water seepage, and fungal growth. A major fault line runs through the ceilings of the antechamber and burial chamber, allowing rainwater to saturate the shale rock, which expands and contracts with humidity changes, exacerbating the damage. This deterioration began notably after a severe flood in 1994, which flooded the tomb and triggered ongoing fungal growth and moisture-related decay. Experts from Cairo University highlight that the surrounding mountain's instability and flash floods compound the risks, potentially leading to catastrophic collapse if not addressed. Archaeologists propose urgent intervention, including stabilizing the mountain above the tomb, reinforcing the structure, and regulating the internal environment to minimize humidity fluctuations. Without these measures, the tomb's long-term preservation is in jeopardy, threatening one of the most iconic sites in Egyptology.