LONGVIEW — A chemical explosion occurred at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging facility in Longview, Washington, at 07:15 PDT (15:15 GMT). The explosion was caused by a rupture of a tank containing white liquor, a highly corrosive chemical used in the paper-making process.

Ten people were injured and transported to hospital, including nine employees and one firefighter, according to Cowlitz Fire and Rescue Chief Scott Goldstein. Injuries ranged from critical severe to minor, including burn and inhalation injuries. There are confirmed fatalities, but the exact number is undetermined. Goldstein said the ruptured tank held about 80,000 gallons (300,000 litres) and was approximately 60% full at the time of the explosion.

The scene is stable and remains in the recovery phase as emergency responders continue operations, the Longview Fire Department said. No identifying information regarding injured or deceased individuals will be released at this time pending notification of family members. Officials in Washington state said no evacuation order is needed following the explosion.

Washington Governor Bob Ferguson said state ecology workers have been sent to the site to assist local officials. "I'm deeply saddened to hear that there have been fatalities. My thoughts are with the workers and their families, and with the first responders," Ferguson said.

White liquor is an alkaline chemical containing sodium hydroxide and sodium sulfide. The Nippon Dynawave Packaging facility employs 1,000 people, according to the Washington State Department of Ecology, and produces tissues, printer paper, cups, plates, cartons, and other goods. The plant was the scene of a major fire in July 2023, when piles of wood at the site burned for days.

The Washington State Department of Ecology confirmed that personnel were deployed to monitor air and water quality near the facility. Local authorities said hazardous materials teams remain on-site to mitigate chemical risks and support recovery efforts.