Additional Coverage:
Several fatalities and multiple injuries were reported Tuesday after an 80,000-gallon chemical tank at a pulp and paper mill in southwestern Washington state imploded. The tank, which was filled over halfway with a corrosive substance called “white liquor,” gave way in an incident that shocked the local community.
Emergency responders confirmed that deaths occurred but have not released specific numbers pending family notifications. Cowlitz Fire and Rescue Chief Scott Goldstein stated at a press briefing, “We have information on that, but we’re not releasing that information” at this time.
Among the injured were workers who suffered burns and inhalation injuries, with conditions ranging from minor to critical. The responders also included a firefighter who was hurt during the operation. Officials emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the public.
Nippon Dynawave Packaging Co., which operates the facility along the Columbia River in Longview, joined local emergency agencies in confirming the fatalities. The plant, a significant regional employer with roughly 1,000 staff, produces materials for tissue, printing paper, and packaging products. It is situated in an industrial area known for timber, paper, and chemical businesses and has long been integral to the local economy.
The tank held a mixture primarily composed of sodium hydroxide and sodium sulfide used in the kraft paper production process. Goldstein noted the tank was about 60% full when it imploded around 7:15 a.m. The cause of the collapse remains under investigation.
Following the explosion, hazardous white liquor leaked into a nearby drainage ditch. State Ecology Department representatives are assessing environmental impacts.
Local officials described the scene as a “mass casualty” event. Approximately 40 firefighters, paramedics, and a regional hazardous materials team responded swiftly, providing decontamination and medical aid before transporting victims to hospitals in Longview and Vancouver.
Senator Patty Murray of Washington expressed her condolences, calling the incident an “absolute tragedy” and extending sympathy to the families and injured workers.
As recovery efforts continue, support networks have been mobilized to assist both the affected workers and emergency personnel, underscoring the profound impact on this tight-knit community.