Longview fire officials said recovery operations were initially delayed “due to safety concerns regarding the structural integrity of the damaged tank.”
LONGVIEW, Wash. – Second person dies A large tank containing corrosive white liquor imploded Tuesday at Japan’s Dynawave paper mill in Longview..
The Longview Fire Department confirmed a second person died from injuries sustained in the incident after being taken to a hospital.
Officials said repair work was delayed and will begin Wednesday due to concerns about the structural integrity of the damaged tank.
As of Wednesday afternoon, nine people were still missing. Eight other people – seven employees and one firefighter – are being treated for injuries.
The tank contained 900,000 gallons of white liquor, a highly corrosive material used to break down wood chips into pulp, but still contained about 90,000 gallons of chemicals, according to officials.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Washington State Department of Ecology continue to monitor air and water quality at the site and implement mitigation measures. Officials said there are currently no negative impacts to air quality or the city’s water supply.
On Wednesday, the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board said it would begin an investigation into the implosion.
Officials said residents are urged to stay away from ditches and levees near Washington Road and Prudential Avenue because white liquid could contaminate water supplies.
This is a development story. Please check back for updates.
