A catastrophic chemical incident at a paper mill in Longview, Washington, has left 11 people presumed dead, making it the deadliest industrial disaster in the state's modern history. The rupture of a white liquor tank on Tuesday released a highly alkaline chemical solution, causing severe damage and injuries. Overseas buyers of pulp, paper, and industrial chemicals should monitor this event for potential supply disruptions and stricter safety enforcement in the region.
Incident overview
On Tuesday, a massive tank containing white liquor—a sodium hydroxide-based solution used in the kraft pulping process—burst at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging mill in Longview, Washington. The fire department confirmed two deaths and nine missing persons, all now presumed dead. Seven injured employees remain hospitalized, while one firefighter has been discharged. The search for survivors has been called off.
Regulatory and safety response
Local fire chief Scott Goldstein stated that victims must undergo decontamination before being transferred to the medical examiner. Authorities have assured the public that there is no ongoing danger to the surrounding community. Washington Governor Bob Ferguson described the event as "the deadliest industrial catastrophe in the modern history of the state of Washington."
Supply-chain impact
Nippon Dynawave Packaging, a subsidiary of Japan's Nippon Paper Group, produces containerboard and kraft paper. The mill's operations are likely suspended for an extended period, which could tighten regional supply of packaging materials. Importers and distributors of paper products should watch for price volatility and seek alternative sources in the Pacific Northwest.
What buyers should watch
Chemical buyers should note that white liquor is a key pulping chemical. The incident may prompt stricter inspections at other mills, potentially slowing production and logistics. Companies sourcing pulp, paper, or caustic soda from Washington or nearby states should contact suppliers for updates on delivery timelines and inventory levels.
Source: Read the original report | Published: May 28, 2026