One killed and nine missing after chemical explosion at US paper mill
One Killed, Nine Missing Following Chemical Explosion at US Paper Mill
One killed and nine missing after – Authorities confirmed that at least one individual has lost their life and nine others remain unaccounted for after a significant chemical explosion at a paper mill in Washington. The incident occurred at 07:15 PDT (15:15 GMT) at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging facility in Longview, a town approximately 130 miles (210 km) south of Seattle. The explosion has triggered ongoing search and rescue operations, with emergency teams working to locate those still missing.
Explosion and Immediate Response
The fire department reported that the explosion was caused by a “rupture of a tank containing white liquor,” as stated by the company in its official release. This highly corrosive chemical plays a critical role in the paper-making process. The scene remains active, and firefighters are actively engaged in stabilizing the area. According to the Longview Fire Department, the damaged tank is still in a precarious state, creating dangerous conditions for responders.
During a late Tuesday update, the fire department indicated that recovery efforts are complicated by the unstable tank. “Responders are continuing efforts to structurally reinforce and stabilize the site before additional recovery operations can safely proceed,” the statement emphasized. While the exact cause of the rupture is under investigation, the initial estimate of the tank’s contents was revised as more information emerged.
Injuries and Emergency Operations
Nine individuals have been injured in the explosion, with the fire department noting that the injuries range from “critical severe to minor.” Among the victims, eight are employees of the factory, and one is a firefighter. The injuries include burns and respiratory issues, with the company citing “multiple critical injuries” in its statement. As of Tuesday evening, the situation at the scene was described as stable, though the public has been advised to stay clear of the area.
Chief Scott Goldstein of the Cowlitz Fire and Rescue department provided an earlier update, stating that ten people had been transported to hospitals. His remarks highlighted the severity of the incident, emphasizing the potential risks faced by those involved. “The scene remains in the recovery phase as emergency responders continue operations,” he said, adding that no evacuation order was necessary at this time.
Chemical Details and Tank Volume
White liquor, a key component in the paper manufacturing process, is an alkaline chemical composed of sodium hydroxide and sodium sulfide. Initially, investigators believed the tank held about 80,000 gallons (300,000 liters) of this substance, but officials later corrected the volume to approximately 900,000 gallons (3,406,000 liters). The fire department estimated that around 90,000 gallons (340,000 liters) of the chemical may still be present in the damaged tank, raising concerns about further leaks or secondary explosions.
Officials in Washington are working closely with state ecology workers to assess the environmental impact of the incident. Governor Bob Ferguson expressed his condolences, stating,
“I’m deeply saddened to hear that there have been fatalities. My thoughts are with the workers and their families, and with the first responders.”
The governor’s remarks underscore the gravity of the situation and the community’s collective concern.
Historical Context and Facility Overview
Local media reported that the Nippon Dynawave Packaging facility had previously experienced a major fire in July 2023. At that time, wood piles on-site burned for several days, causing widespread disruption. The plant, which is a key part of Washington’s manufacturing sector, produces a variety of goods, including tissues, printer paper, cups, plates, cartons, and other packaging materials. The Washington State Department of Ecology noted that the facility employs over 1,000 workers, highlighting its significance to the local economy.
While the current explosion has focused attention on the immediate area, officials have also drawn comparisons to a similar incident in California. There, a chemical tank in Orange County was on the verge of detonation, prompting an evacuation of 50,000 residents. However, the situation there has since been deemed safe, with no evacuation orders issued for Washington at this stage. This contrast underscores the different levels of risk associated with chemical storage in various regions.
Ongoing Investigations and Public Safety
As the investigation continues, authorities are prioritizing the safety of both the public and emergency personnel. The fire department reiterated that the tank remains unstable, requiring careful handling to prevent further complications. “Recovery efforts remain complex due to ongoing safety concerns at the site,” the department noted in a statement, emphasizing the need for caution during the cleanup process.
The company’s statement confirmed that the tank’s rupture was the primary cause of the explosion, though the exact sequence of events is still being analyzed. With the potential for hazardous conditions persisting, local officials have maintained that no evacuation is currently needed, citing the absence of immediate threats to the broader community. This reassurance, however, has not diminished the urgency of the situation, as teams work to ensure the site is fully secured.
While no identifying information about the injured or deceased has been released to the public yet, officials have indicated that family notifications will come after the details are finalized. This approach aims to provide clarity before sharing sensitive information. The incident has sparked discussions about chemical safety protocols in industrial facilities, with experts calling for a review of current practices to prevent future occurrences.
The Nippon Dynawave Packaging facility, which has been operational for years, now stands as a focal point for both local and state authorities. As the recovery efforts continue, the community watches closely for updates on the number of missing individuals and the extent of the damage. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the risks inherent in chemical-based manufacturing and the importance of preparedness in such environments.