Emergency response after industrial implosion in Longview
At least one person has died, and nine others remain unaccounted for after a tank implosion at a manufacturing plant in Longview, Washington state, officials said Tuesday.
Local authorities, fire services and company representatives confirmed in a joint statement that a tank containing “white liquor” used in the paper-pulping process ruptured early Tuesday at Nippon Dynawave Packaging.
Casualties and injuries reported
Officials said at least nine other people, including a firefighter, were injured, with conditions ranging from minor to critical. Some victims suffered burns and inhalation injuries.
The Longview Fire Department said liquid remained inside the collapsed tank, complicating rescue and recovery efforts.
“The tank remains unstable, creating hazardous conditions for emergency personnel,” the department said, adding that recovery operations would resume once conditions are safe.
Search and recovery operations suspended
Authorities said emergency crews would monitor the site overnight but pause recovery efforts until Wednesday due to ongoing safety risks.
Officials confirmed that at least one of the deceased has been identified as a worker at the facility, while efforts continue to locate those still missing.
Hospitalisations and emergency response
Patients were transported to hospitals in Longview and Vancouver. PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center reported receiving nine patients, including one fatality and several in fair condition.
Fire officials also confirmed that one firefighter was injured during the response but has since been treated and released.
Cause under investigation
The chemical involved, known as “white liquor,” is used in pulp processing and contains sodium hydroxide, sodium sulfide and disodium carbonate.
Authorities initially reported the tank held 80,000 gallons, but later revised the estimate to around 900,000 gallons at the time of the incident.
The plant, which employs around 1,000 workers, produces packaging materials used for cartons, cups and paper products and has operated since 1953.
Safety record and prior violations
According to Washington state labour records, the company has previously been fined for workplace safety violations, including fall protection failures and equipment-related incidents.
However, officials emphasised that earlier safety complaints are not linked to the current explosion.
Community impact
Despite the scale of the incident, authorities said there is no immediate threat to the surrounding community. Residents have been urged to avoid the industrial site while investigations continue.
The incident has prompted renewed scrutiny of industrial safety standards in the region as recovery operations remain ongoing.
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