Chemical Explosion at Nippon Dynawave Facility in Longview, Washington Leaves One Dead, Nine Missing

A major chemical incident occurred at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging Company in Longview, Washington, on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, resulting in at least one fatality, multiple injuries, and nine employees unaccounted for. The explosion involved a large tank containing “white liquor,” a highly corrosive chemical used in the papermaking process, according to emergency officials and local media reports.

Details of the Incident

The explosion took place at approximately 7:18 a.m. At the facility located at 3401 Industrial Way. Authorities reported that a tank containing white liquor, a strong alkaline liquid composed primarily of sodium hydroxide and sodium sulfide, ruptured. This substance is integral to the Kraft process, which dissolves wood fibers to produce pulp for paper products.

At least one person was confirmed dead, with nine employees still missing as of the latest update. Ten individuals, including one firefighter, were hospitalized with injuries, according to the Longview Fire Department and Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office. The exact cause of the tank failure remains under investigation.

Emergency Response and Challenges

Emergency crews initially responded to the scene, but operations were suspended due to the tank’s structural instability and the presence of corrosive chemicals. Firefighters and a Hazardous Materials Team worked to mitigate the release of white liquor and assess the remaining contents of the damaged tank, which originally held approximately 900,000 gallons of the substance. Officials estimated that 90,000 gallons may still remain inside.

The incident prompted evacuations and advisories for nearby residents to avoid the area. Aerial footage from the scene showed significant damage to the facility, with recovery efforts complicated by ongoing chemical hazards.

Background on White Liquor and Industrial Risks

White liquor, while essential for paper production, is classified as extremely dangerous due to its high corrosiveness. Exposure can cause severe chemical burns and other injuries. The Nippon facility, a paper mill, produces tissue, printing paper, and other paper products, according to local reports.

Following the explosion, families of missing employees gathered at the Association of Western Pulp and Paper Workers Local 153 Hall, awaiting updates. Community members placed flowers outside the building as support for affected families.

Investigation and Next Steps

Authorities are investigating the cause of the tank rupture, with no immediate conclusions released. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and other regulatory bodies may become involved, though no official announcements have been made. The facility’s operator, Nippon Dynawave Packaging Company, has not issued a public statement as of this report.

Local officials emphasized the need for caution as recovery efforts continue. “The priority remains the safety of first responders and the community,” said a spokesperson for the Longview Fire Department.

Key Takeaways

• A chemical tank rupture at Nippon Dynawave Packaging Company in Longview, Washington, resulted in at least one death and nine missing employees.
• The incident involved white liquor, a corrosive substance used in papermaking, which caused multiple injuries and hazardous conditions.
• Emergency response efforts were suspended due to structural instability and chemical risks, with investigations ongoing.
• Families of affected workers await updates as recovery operations continue.

The incident highlights the risks associated with industrial chemical handling and the critical importance of emergency preparedness in manufacturing environments.