(LONGVIEW, WA) — At least two dead and nine missing after a chemical tank imploded Tuesday morning at Nippon Dynawave Packaging’s paper mill on Tuesday morning in Longview, Washington.
Photo Credit: ecology.wa.gov
In a statement regarding the accident at U.S. Subsidiary Nippon Dynawave packaging facility the company expressed its regret.
“We deeply regret to inform you that a tank collapse occurred at the facility of our U.S. subsidiary, Nippon Dynawave Packaging, located in Washington State, U.S.A., and we have confirmed that this has resulted in multiple casualties. We express our deepest condolences and offer our heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved families. We also sincerely apologize for the immense concern and inconvenience this has caused to the local community, our business partners, and all related parties," the company said.
The U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) announced that it is opening an investigation into the fatal chemical tank implosion.
According to local authorities, the incident involved the rupture and implosion of a large tank containing white liquor, a corrosive chemical solution used in paper and pulp processing.
Initial reports to the CSB indicate that the incident resulted in multiple fatalities and serious injuries. Several workers are unaccounted for as emergency response and recovery operations continue.
OpGov.news reached out for comment about the incident and received the following status updates.
“The City of Longview is confirming that the City’s drinking water remains safe and there is no immediate threat to public health following Tuesday’s incident at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging. Longview’s drinking water is sourced from protected underground aquifers located approximately 200 feet below the surface.
The City’s water treatment plant continuously monitors water quality 24 hours a day and is engineered to automatically shut down before contaminated water can enter the public water system. City crews are working aggressively to divert contaminants away from City wellheads and critical water infrastructure.
Additionally, the City is clarifying that hydrant flushing is being conducted intentionally to increase water movement through stormwater systems, dikes, and drainage ditches. This process helps flood the ditch system to dilute and move any residual white liquor away from sensitive areas.
Photo Credit: ecology.wa.gov
As white liquor becomes diluted with water, it can create an odor through a process known as off-gassing. While the smell may be noticeable in some locations, it is not considered toxic at the levels being detected in the community. The EPA continues to monitor air quality throughout Longview, and there have been no detections of abnormal or dangerous air quality conditions related to the incident.
We are also aware of reports about deceased fish within some local slough areas. Environmental experts indicate some fish impacts would be expected due to elevated pH levels associated with the released material," Washington Department of Ecology said.
We continue to work closely with local, state, and federal partners to monitor conditions and protect public health and infrastructure.”
Representative Adam Smith released the following statement in response to the tragedy.
“My heart goes out to the workers and families affected by yesterday's tragic chemical explosion in Longview. I stand with the people of southwest Washington and fully support the community's efforts to get the answers and support they deserve. I am grateful for the first responders and local leaders working around the clock for their neighbors during this incredibly difficult time,” Smith.
OpGov.news will continue to follow this developing story.
If you would like to add to or comment on this report, please email me at rory.h@lead4earth.org.
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