Explosion at Washington Paper Mill Causes Fatalities and Injuries
Authorities report multiple fatalities, injuries, and missing persons following a significant chemical explosion at a paper mill in Washington state.
The incident took place at 07:15 PDT (15:15 GMT) at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging facility located in Longview, approximately 130 miles (210 km) south of Seattle.
Injuries and Fatalities Confirmed
During a news conference on Tuesday, investigators confirmed that 10 individuals have been injured and transported to hospitals. Officials have not yet disclosed the exact number of deceased or missing persons.
The company stated that the explosion resulted from a "rupture of a tank containing white liquor," a highly corrosive chemical used in the paper production process.
Official Statements and Emergency Response
Cowlitz Fire and Rescue Chief Scott Goldstein indicated that the number of fatalities remains unknown at this time but confirmed that fatalities have occurred.
"There are an 'unknown number of fatalities at this moment,' adding that officials have 'confirmed that there are fatalities, but the exact number is undetermined'."
Among the injured, nine are factory employees and one is a firefighter. Injuries range from critical and severe to minor, including burns and inhalation injuries. The company noted the presence of "multiple critical injuries."
The ruptured tank contained approximately 80,000 gallons (300,000 litres) and was about 60% full at the time of the explosion.
Chief Goldstein described the scene as stable but urged the public to avoid the area as firefighting efforts continue. He reassured that the fire does not pose a threat to the broader community.
The Longview Fire Department stated:
"The scene remains in the recovery phase as emergency responders continue operations."
They also noted that:
"No identifying information regarding injured or deceased individuals will be released at this time pending notification of family members."
Chemical Details and State Response
White liquor is an alkaline chemical composed of sodium hydroxide and sodium sulfide.
Washington Governor Bob Ferguson announced that state ecology workers have been dispatched to assist local authorities at the site.
"I'm deeply saddened to hear that there have been fatalities," Ferguson said in a statement.
"My thoughts are with the workers and their families, and with the first responders."
Facility Background and Related Incidents
Local media reports that the Nippon Dynawave Packaging facility was previously affected by a major fire in July 2023, during which wood piles at the site burned for several days.
The plant manufactures tissues, printer paper, cups, plates, cartons, and other products, according to CBS, the BBC's US partner. The Washington State Department of Ecology states the facility employs approximately 1,000 people.
Context and Regional Safety Measures
The explosion in Washington occurs as officials in California report that a chemical tank posing an explosion risk has been secured.
The California tank, located in Orange County, contains a plastic-making chemical and had prompted an evacuation order affecting 50,000 residents.
Authorities in Washington have indicated that no evacuation order is necessary for the current incident.
