Recovery efforts resume after 11 presumed dead in Washington chemical tank rupture

Recovery operations are underway in Longview, Washington, following the implosion and rupture of a chemical tank at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging Co. facility on Tuesday, May 26, 2026. The incident, involving a tank containing corrosive "white liquor" used in paper production, has resulted in at least two confirmed fatalities. Additionally, nine workers remain unaccounted for, with authorities indicating there is no hope for rescue and efforts have transitioned to recovery.

Eight employees and one firefighter sustained injuries in the incident, some experiencing chemical burns or inhalation issues. Initial recovery work was complicated by the damaged tank's unstable condition and lingering chemical contents, estimated at 90,000 gallons.

While officials have assured the public that there is no immediate external threat, the site remains hazardous for emergency personnel. The cause of the chemical tank implosion is currently under investigation.