Washington State Paper Mill Explosion Leaves Fatality and Multiple Workers Injured.

[toner]

A massive chemical tank implosion at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging paper mill in Longview has turned into one of the worst industrial accidents in Washington state in recent years. Authorities say at least one person has died, nine workers remain missing, and nine others were injured after a huge storage tank containing nearly 900,000 gallons of “white liquor” — a highly corrosive chemical mixture used in paper production — ruptured and collapsed Tuesday morning. The explosion-like implosion sent toxic chemicals spilling into drainage systems and left emergency crews struggling to safely enter the unstable site due to fears of further collapse and chemical exposure. Several victims reportedly suffered severe burns and inhalation injuries, including a firefighter responding to the disaster. Officials described the scene as a “mass casualty incident,” while state agencies, hazmat teams, and the National Guard joined recovery operations. The cause of the implosion remains under investigation, though reports note the facility had previous workplace safety complaints and violations in recent years. (opb)

[Author]

May 27, 2026 at 11:24 AM