Deadly Longview Tank Implosion Sends Chemical Leak Into Columbia River Along Oregon-Washington Border

Following a chemical tank implosion at the Nippon Dynawave Facility in Washington on Tuesday morning, officials confirmed that chemicals had leaked into the Columbia River.

Longview Tank Implosion Led to Chemical Leak In Columbia River

Two people have been confirmed dead following the implosion, and crews are still working to recover nine missing employees at the facility.

While no evidence of airborne contamination has been found, spikes in high-pH material in the Columbia River were noted roughly at the time of the initial incident, at 7:15 in the morning, and approximately two or three hours later.

Some carp died in a ditch after exposure to the high-pH chemical.

Various agencies are involved in the investigation:

• The spill was reported to the state ecology department by the company
• The company is working with the Environmental Protection Agency on addressing other spills into surrounding ditches and dykes.
• Longview’s Public Works Department is leading an environmental group and is looking into the extent of the spill and the concerns it raises.
• The Chemical Safety Board has opened an investigation into the implosion, and a team of investigators was expected to be at the site through the day yesterday.
• The Fire investigation will begin after the victims are recovered.

People are asked to stay away from the ditches and dykes around the facility. Those living close to the explosion site can contact the Washington Poison Center (1-800-222-1222) if they’re experiencing trouble breathing, coughing, wheezing, or confusion.