Paper Mill Implosion in Washington Leaves 8 Confirmed Dead
Editor's Note: As of May 29, eight are confirmed dead with another three still missing.
On Tuesday morning, a chemical tank imploded at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging paper mill in Longview, Washington, according to The Guardian. Local news KGW8 reports at least one is confirmed dead with another nine people missing and 10 more injured. CBS News further reports that officials say there is "no hope for survival" for the nine missing.
KGW reports that the tank that imploded allegedly was storing 90,000 gallons of "'white liquor,' a highly caustic alkaline solution used to break down solid wood chips in the pulp and paper production process," although the tank was designed to hold up to 900,000 gallons.
The Nippon Dynawave facility contains a kraft pulp and paper mill as well as multiple liquid packaging plants and employs approximately 1,000 people. It is located along the Columbia River, is a major employer in Longview and produces materials used in packaging, tissues and paper products.
Nippon Dynawave, founded in 1953, is a subsidiary of Nippon Paper Group and is a provider of coated and uncoated liquid packaging board, and high-quality market pulp.
The cause of the implosion remains under investigation as crews continue stabilization and accountability efforts at the site.
Ashley Roberts is Content Director of Printing Impressions.
