The death toll from a chemical tank rupture in Washington state has risen to 11 after authorities recovered all missing individuals from the site.
Officials confirmed that recovery teams located the remaining nine missing workers following days of intensive search operations at the industrial facility.
Two deaths were initially confirmed shortly after the incident, which took place earlier in the week at a pulp and paper manufacturing plant.
Tank Containing Industrial Chemical Collapsed
The incident occurred at a facility operated by Nippon Dynawave Packaging, where a large storage tank containing a chemical solution known as “white liquor” suddenly imploded.
The chemical mixture includes sodium hydroxide and sodium sulfide, both commonly used in paper pulp processing.
The rupture released a massive volume of material, with reports indicating that the tank held approximately 900,000 gallons, equivalent to around 3.4 million litres.
Search and Recovery Operations Continue for Days
Following the incident, emergency teams launched a large-scale search operation across the facility. Crews worked through debris inside damaged structures while drones surveyed surrounding areas.
Rescue officials confirmed that all nine missing individuals were eventually located, bringing the total confirmed fatalities to 11.
Authorities described the operation as complex due to hazardous conditions and chemical exposure risks at the site.
Environmental Concerns After Chemical Spill
Officials reported that contamination from the ruptured tank reached the nearby Columbia River. However, early assessments indicated no detectable negative impact on air quality or drinking water supplies in Longview.
Environmental monitoring continues as investigators assess the full extent of the spill and its potential long-term effects on the surrounding ecosystem.
Company Background and Facility Ownership
The facility is operated by Nippon Dynawave Packaging, a subsidiary of Nippon Paper Industries, one of Japan’s major paper manufacturing companies.
The plant was acquired in 2016 from a US-based timber company for approximately $225 million, marking a significant expansion of the company’s international operations.
Since then, the site has been engaged in pulp and packaging production, making it a key industrial facility in the region.
Investigation Underway Into Cause of Rupture
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the tank failure. Early focus remains on structural integrity, chemical storage safety, and operational procedures at the facility.
Officials have not yet confirmed whether mechanical failure, pressure buildup, or other technical issues led to the explosion.
Industrial Safety Concerns Highlighted
The incident has renewed attention on industrial chemical storage standards and worker safety in high-risk manufacturing environments.
Experts say incidents involving large-scale chemical storage systems require strict monitoring and preventive maintenance to avoid catastrophic failures.
For now, investigators continue to analyze evidence while families mourn the loss of all 11 victims in the tragedy.
