A devastating chemical explosion at a pulp and paper mill in Longview, Washington, has resulted in one fatality and nine individuals missing, presumed dead. The incident occurred on Tuesday morning at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging Company facility.
Details of the Explosion
A storage tank containing more than 900,000 gallons of chemicals ruptured, triggering a massive explosion. The Longview Fire Department reported that eight employees and one firefighter sustained injuries, while nine workers remain unaccounted for. Authorities have assured the public that there is no immediate threat to the surrounding area.
Community and Official Response
Longview Mayor Erik Halvorson expressed deep sorrow during a Tuesday night press conference, stating, "Our community has entered a period of profound tragedy and deep mourning." Washington Senator Patty Murray also commented, describing the community as "an amazing community of hardworking people" affected by the tragedy.
The cause of the tank rupture remains unknown. Cowlitz 2 Fire & Rescue Chief Scott Goldstein noted that emergency crews are focused on life safety and incident stabilization. The tank still holds approximately 90,000 gallons of a chemical mixture containing sodium hydroxide, sodium sulphide, and disodium carbonate, which is used in the paper-making process. Additionally, a water main break at the mill released about 500,000 gallons of the chemical mixture and water on-site.
Search and Rescue Efforts
Search operations for the missing workers are expected to resume on Wednesday once the remaining chemicals are stabilized. Goldstein emphasized the complexity of the recovery efforts due to ongoing hazards, including concerns about the structural integrity of the damaged tank, which could collapse. Battalion Chief Matt Amos of the Longview Fire Department indicated that some areas of the plant remain inaccessible.
Victim Conditions
Nine individuals, including one deceased, were transported to PeaceHealth Medical Centre. A hospital spokesperson reported that six patients are in fair condition, while two others were transferred to different medical facilities. Legacy Health confirmed it is treating patients, including some at the Legacy Oregon Burn Center in Portland. The injured firefighter has been treated and released. Authorities have contacted the families of the victims, though no names have been released.
A candlelight vigil was held on Tuesday night, with community members holding photos of loved ones involved in the incident.
About Nippon Dynawave
The Nippon Dynawave facility, located near the Columbia River on the Washington-Oregon border, is a kraft pulp and paper mill and liquid packaging plant employing nearly 1,000 people. According to the Washington Department of Ecology, the plant produces 280,000 tons of bleached liquid packaging paperboard and pulp annually, used for making cartons and cups for milk, juice, and coffee.
