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May 27, 2026
Chemical Tank Collapse at Washington Paper Mill Leaves Workers Dead, Injured, and Missing
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Our thoughts are with the workers, families, first responders, and everyone impacted by the chemical tank implosion and collapse at Nippon Dynawave Packaging Co. in Longview, Washington.
On Tuesday, a massive chemical tank holding highly corrosive liquid imploded and collapsed at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging Co. paper mill in Longview, Washington. According to the Associated Press, at least two workers were killed, nine others remained unaccounted for, and another eight people were injured in the incident. Survivors suffered severe burns and inhalation injuries. A responding firefighter was also among those injured.
The tank contained a chemical mixture known as “white liquor,” a highly caustic liquid used in the papermaking process. Officials said the tank still contained about 90,000 gallons of the chemical after the collapse, creating ongoing safety concerns for emergency crews as they search for missing workers and stabilizing the collapsed tank.
Recovery Efforts Continue After Longview Chemical Tank Collapse
During a news conference on Tuesday evening, Cowlitz Fire and Rescue Chief Scott Goldstein emphasized that the situation is still being approached as a recovery effort.
Officials noted that crews can only work during daylight hours due to the ongoing risks posed by the collapsed chemical tank. They confirmed, however, that there was no threat to the public.
The cause of the implosion has not yet been determined.
Chemical Spill Raises Serious Workplace Safety Questions
Over 1,000 Longview residents work at the Nippon Dynawave facility, making the company one of the area’s most prominent employers. This incident has left the Longview community waiting for answers. At a community vigil Tuesday night, residents gathered to pray, light candles, and support families affected by the collapse.
The chemical tank implosion and collapse is just the latest in a series of health and safety violations at Nippon Dynawave. The company has been fined for three separate violations in the last five years involving required face coverings, fall risks, and equipment being moved despite being under active investigation.
While the cause of the Longview chemical tank collapse remains unknown, serious industrial accidents like this highlight the risks laborers often face when working around dangerous chemicals and heavy equipment.
As investigators work to determine what happened, the affected workers and their families deserve answers, accountability, and support.
