A chemical tank implosion at a pulp and paper mill in Longview, Washington, resulted in fatalities and multiple critical injuries, as confirmed by local authorities and company officials. The incident involved a rupture of a tank containing white liquor, a chemical utilized in the paper-pulping process. Washington Governor Bob Ferguson expressed condolences for the casualties and deployed responders from the state Ecology Department to the scene.
The Longview Fire Department responded to the hazardous materials incident caused by the implosion of a chemical treatment product vat at the Nippon Dynawave facility. Several individuals sustained chemical burns and other injuries, necessitating transportation to hospitals. Although there was no ongoing threat to the public, residents were advised to avoid the area while emergency crews managed the situation.
Situated near the Washington-Oregon border along the Columbia River, the facility functions as a kraft pulp and paper mill along with a liquid packaging plant, according to the Washington State Department of Ecology. Investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the incident.
