Longview, Washington paper mill blast kills eleven
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Authorities in Longview, Washington, say at least 11 workers are dead after a chemical storage tank exploded and collapsed on July 26 at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging Co. paper mill, a subsidiary of Nippon Paper Industries. The tank, holding about 3.41 million liters of highly corrosive “white liquor” used in pulping, suffered an internal implosion that remains under investigation. An estimated 2.08–2.16 million liters leaked, with residual chemicals still seeping and contaminants confirmed in the nearby Columbia River, where dozens of carp have been found dead. Officials report no immediate impacts to air quality or drinking water, while recovery and decontamination of remains continue.
Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.
Timeline of Events
- July 26 Chemical tank suffers internal implosion
- July 26 Massive white liquor spill reported
- July 26 Emergency crews begin rescue operations
- Later that day Contaminants detected in Columbia River
- Later that day Dozens of carp found dead
- Following days Ongoing chemical leakage monitored
- Following days Bodies recovered, decontaminated, identified
- Today Officials confirm no additional survivors expected
Why This Matters to You
This incident affects your community. Chemicals are seeping into the Columbia River, killing fish. While officials report no immediate impact to air quality or drinking water, stay alert. Check local news for updates.
The Bottom Line
A tragic accident at a local paper mill has taken lives and threatens local wildlife. The full environmental impact is still unfolding. If you live near the Columbia River, it's worth forwarding this to your neighbors.
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