Longview, Washington mill disaster contaminates Columbia River
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Authorities in Longview, Washington, have shifted from rescue to recovery operations after a 900,000-gallon chemical tank ruptured Tuesday at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging pulp and paper mill. Officials confirmed two deaths and said nine additional workers remain missing and are feared dead. The tank contained white liquor, a caustic mixture of sodium hydroxide and sodium sulfide used in paper production, with an estimated 550,000 to 570,000 gallons released. Tests now confirm the spill has reached the Columbia River. As of Wednesday, air quality and Longview’s municipal drinking water show no identified health impacts, while environmental assessments of the river continue.
More context
Timeline
- Tuesday Tank at Nippon Dynawave Packaging ruptures
- Tuesday Hundreds of thousands of gallons escape
- Tuesday Initial search and rescue operations begin
- Wednesday Officials confirm two deaths, nine missing
- Wednesday Testing detects contamination in Columbia River
- Wednesday Governor calls event potentially deadliest industrial tragedy
- Today Site remains unstable with ongoing minor leaks
- Today Public advised to avoid disaster vicinity
Why it matters
This disaster could impact your community's health and safety. If you live near the Columbia River, be cautious. Avoid the area around the mill. Keep an eye on local news for updates on water safety.
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
