Longview, WA (May 27, 2026) – At least one person died, and nine others remained unaccounted for after a chemical tank ruptured Tuesday morning at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging Company paper mill in Longview. Fire crews were called to the facility around 7:18 a.m. after what officials described as a major chemical explosion.
Investigators said the damaged tank contained roughly 900,000 gallons of a chemical mixture known as “white liquor,” which is used in paper manufacturing. About 90,000 gallons reportedly remained inside the unstable tank following the blast. Officials stated the substance also spilled into a county drainage ditch after the rupture.
One person later died after being taken to a local hospital. Eight mill workers and one firefighter were also hospitalized with injuries that included chemical burns. Medical officials said several patients remained in fair condition, while two others were transferred to outside facilities for further treatment. Authorities believe additional fatalities may be discovered as recovery operations continue.
Officials suspended recovery efforts Tuesday evening because the damaged tank remained unstable. Crews planned to continue reinforcing the structure before resuming searches on Wednesday. No identities had been released as of late Tuesday.
Investigators are continuing to assess the cause of the industrial explosion and the structural dangers at the facility. Our deepest condolences go out to the families affected by this tragedy.
Why Chemical Tank Failures at Industrial Plants Can Be So Dangerous
Industrial tanks used in paper mills and manufacturing facilities often store large volumes of chemicals under high-pressure or high-temperature conditions. When one of these tanks ruptures, the force can spread debris, hazardous material, and fire across a wide section of the facility within seconds. Workers nearby may also face risks from chemical exposure, burns, or structural collapse.
Emergency crews responding to industrial explosions usually focus first on stabilizing the site before entering damaged sections. Hazardous material teams may monitor air quality, nearby water systems, and remaining chemicals inside damaged containers. Recovery work can take days when structures remain unstable or when large amounts of industrial material continue leaking into surrounding drainage systems. Investigators often examine maintenance records, tank pressure systems, and plant operations to understand the cause of the failure.
