A chemical tank implodes at a Washington paper mill in Longview; several dead, several injured

An implosion at a pulp and paper mill in southwestern Washington state killed several people and critically injured several others Tuesday morning (May 26), according to local authorities and company officials.

The incident occurred around 7:15 a.m. at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging Co. facility, prompting a major emergency response involving firefighters, first responders and hazardous materials crews.

According to the Longview Fire Department, the incident occurred at approximately 7:15 a.m. on May 26 at the company’s facility located at 3401 Industrial Way in Longview. Officials said a tank containing “white liquor,” a chemical used in papermaking, ruptured during operation.

Initial reports described the event as an implosion involving a vat of chemical preparation. Firefighters later confirmed that the crack caused a hazardous material emergency.

Injuries and fatalities

In a joint statement, Nippon Dynawave Packaging Co. and local law enforcement confirmed that a ruptured chemical storage tank resulted in death and “multiple serious injuries.”

Authorities said some victims suffered severe burns and inhalation injuries after the implosion.

The victims were taken by ambulance to area hospitals, including PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center and PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center.

Officials later confirmed casualties related to the incident, although the exact death toll has not yet been released. The names of the injured and deceased are being withheld pending family notification.

Emergency response

A large-scale emergency response was launched, including:

– Longview Fire Department

-Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office

-Regional Hazardous Materials Teams and Emergency Medical Personnel

Response crews deployed five fire engines, seven ambulances, several senior officers and a hazardous materials team to stabilize the scene and assist with recovery efforts.

Public safety consultancy

Authorities emphasized that there is currently no immediate threat to the surrounding community. Residents have been asked to avoid the area while emergency services continue to operate safely.

The investigation continues

The cause of the tank rupture remains under investigation. More updates are expected as officials continue to investigate the circumstances of the industrial accident.